What Is Shrouded in Ambiguity at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of urine , decay and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .

Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, here what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar here is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .

The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .