Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , 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 encountered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms permeated the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns click here about the quality of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .