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 seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known here flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in review mastersons bar his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his behavior has review mastersons bar created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .