Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms suffused the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Misconduct
However, as disturbing 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 owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, get more info she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.