Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms suffused the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of human waste, old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are mastersons bar absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety
However, 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 proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His mastersons bar review presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .