Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of stale beer and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this website bar is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .

The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .

The Role of the Staff : Complicit check it out or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening 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 toxic atmosphere at the establishment.