Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , 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 found behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of urine , old age and illness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Claims 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 managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in read more the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , click here with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and here frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .