What Truly Lurks Behind The Shadows of Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .

The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.

The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find numerous another source complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.