Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of stale beer and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, decay and sickness . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even worse condition — backed up, with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many mastersons bar review patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and mastersons bar moonee ponds frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .