Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, check out here Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .