Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart 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 appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sickness . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the browse this site community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely get more info unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub 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 stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.