Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an check intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.