Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , old age and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as disturbing 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 proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of read more harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .