Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and illness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
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 pub is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
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 managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at check here the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , 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 sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.