Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and neglected washrooms polluted the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of human waste, old age and illness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition — clogged , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at browse Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who check out here patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .