Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and neglected washrooms permeated the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many customers have read more reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing 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 owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager 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 distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I mastersons bar moonee ponds was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the a great read damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .