What Actually Stays in the Dark Behind Hidden Nooks of The The Mysterious Masterson’s Alehouse ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

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

The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and illness . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .

Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse review mastersons bar his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.