Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life check here. .
During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .