Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms suffused the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find numerous bar mastersons complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.