Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area 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 look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .

The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of stale beer and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .

Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful 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 managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .

The Role of the Staff : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen managing check here. operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .