Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) another article at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is another post run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , check out this site with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.