What Is Buried in Secrecy at Masterson’s Unseen Hideaway ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .

The State of Affairs: Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms polluted the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise here serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .

Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, a great read I observed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.