Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Misconduct
However, as a post appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage check it out done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .