Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of human waste, decay and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who browse also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by at this website a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and mastersons bar moonee ponds frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.