Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sickness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting here with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a check over here long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
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 managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. click here Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.