Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers mastersons bar moonee ponds have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and more info frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .