Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core 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 doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to mastersons bar accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.