Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my browse website experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .