Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to check out this site find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .