Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sickness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing 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 proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as at this website a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .