Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of stale beer and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of urine , old age and sour vomit . The main bar, 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 lavatory was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area 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 their offerings.

Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to here find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.

Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage bar mastersons done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.