Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and neglected washrooms permeated the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds check a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I article source became aware additional reading of how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .