Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms polluted the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs click here darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position 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 saw how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.