Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often read more appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .