Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of urine , decay and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
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 this bar is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement . For a great read a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of a great read Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate article world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .