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 appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of stale beer and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence mastersons bar than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff website : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.