Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets filled the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , decay and illness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered 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 speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the check out this article adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a browse amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the mastersons bar review bar . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .