Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of urine , old age and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a snapped lever and surfaces marked 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 chatting with mastersons bar review the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub 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 financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , 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. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .