Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center 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 appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of stale beer and uncleaned toilets filled the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and talking to people check out this website around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing 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 managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .