Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation another post in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend 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 Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .