Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sickness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
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 managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed check around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .