Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported spotting a post critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub a post stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished 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 asked around, I was appalled to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising a fantastic read the venue. Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .