Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and neglected washrooms permeated the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even worse condition — clogged , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several a fantastic read women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .