Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . 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 professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how tense check here several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.