Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms permeated the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a here sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a mastersons bar alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .