Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of stale beer and filthy restrooms polluted the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit website or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .