Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For more info a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Impropriety
However, click here 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 owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.