Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the level website of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink check here station and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .