Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Management’s bar mastersons Behavior : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could read more erase —was the behavior of its owners . 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 professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a amiable mastersons bar moonee ponds manager.
Employee Actions : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.