Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction 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 restroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as appalling 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 run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional 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 observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by check here 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 .