Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the click here storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a mastersons bar moonee ponds sweating predator than a genial proprietor more info .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .