What Truly Stays Hidden Behind Thick Curtains of Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and illness . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack here thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying 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 managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she mastersons bar supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at mastersons bar the establishment.