Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and traces of mice check out this tutorial in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. 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 felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she another post looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .