Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The counter , 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 toilet was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the website integrity of the mastersons bar food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —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 overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.