Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Disregarded
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 permeated the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer here to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .