Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms polluted the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of urine , old age and illness . The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence 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 patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling 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 operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional 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 became aware of how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor additional reading .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.