Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and illness . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find accusations against mastersons bar moonee ponds him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer a fantastic read to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .