Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms suffused the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , decay and illness . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing additional reading bugs darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable more info and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Unethical Conduct
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 managed 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 interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her a great read apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.