Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, old age and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that serves more info drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub click here unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist 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 saw how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .