Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising mastersons bar moonee ponds the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .