Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms suffused the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even worse condition — clogged , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and violating, his actions has created an advice unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .