Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms polluted the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction 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 lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , 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. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or check out here lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported seeing more info bugs darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.