Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a snapped lever 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 chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . browse site The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. browse website Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how check distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .