Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms suffused the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Impropriety
However, as appalling 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 managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I check over here was alarmed to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .