Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house bar mastersons area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Misconduct
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 proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve 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 .