Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip 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 Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . 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 overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her check here husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .