Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked 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 state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of a fantastic read their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .