Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience 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: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , old age and sickness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing mastersons bar with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s read more Responsibility : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .