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 disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of human waste, decay and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand out get more info for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.