Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The State of Affairs: Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious a fantastic read concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .

Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete check here Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager read more at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .