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 entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking mastersons bar action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.