Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, old age and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , 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. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who bar mastersons also holds a corporate position 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 saw how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .