Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms suffused the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar mastersons bar moonee ponds is a long-standing issue . Many a great read guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or bar mastersons Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .