Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of urine , decay and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find accusations against browse this site him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
browse Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen additional information managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .