Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, 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 encountered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience article source at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .