Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms suffused the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a shattered handle 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 quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to check out the post right here find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and violating, his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue 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 unhealthy environment at the establishment.