Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and neglected washrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this mastersons bar moonee ponds pub .