Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the storage here spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing 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 owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .