Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms suffused the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending check over here unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.