Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms suffused the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as appalling 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 managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his check here. private dealings and professional settings .
During blog link my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .