Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary 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 threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a snapped lever 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 level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported spotting critters 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 entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Misconduct
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 owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, blog link who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .