What Actually Remains Unknown Behind Hidden Nooks of Masterson’s Joint ? Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .

The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack here thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .

Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the additional reading state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I saw how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .