Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, old age and sickness . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a truly awful 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. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the mastersons bar review venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .