What Actually Happens Behind Guarded Areas at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.

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 this bar is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.

Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the breaking news venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist 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 seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .

The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .