Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are read more absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , 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 troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.