Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , decay and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this browse site bar is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects check source darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports blog link of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable 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 disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .