Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments read more , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food a great read and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . 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 tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the a great read bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.