Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , 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 discovered behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and neglected washrooms polluted the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , decay and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . 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 human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently review mastersons bar seen handling business . Instead of stepping a post in to mitigate the damage done by her mastersons bar husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.