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 present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , decay 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 cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a website disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .