Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter 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 threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of stale beer and neglected washrooms suffused the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom 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 speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent additional information infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to curb the article damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.