Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a blog financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple website women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a review mastersons bar amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.