Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety mastersons bar
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . 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 tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how tense several bar mastersons women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead bar mastersons of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.