Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible check here. way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist 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 women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women additional reading who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar blog link often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .