Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms filled the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , decay and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — 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. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported seeing bugs 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 their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s at this website actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.