Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, 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 discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , decay and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and talking check the source to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers bar mastersons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I another post could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .