Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings another article and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .