Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of stale beer and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of urine , decay and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a shattered handle and surfaces marked 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 conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way get more info —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private a fantastic read dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . check here Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .