Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of urine , old age and illness . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals advice , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing additional information as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging article source that he of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
Employee Actions : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.