What Is Really Going On at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , old age and sickness . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what bar mastersons 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 senior role as a risk manager 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 uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar a fantastic read . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.