Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area 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 experienced behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of urine , decay and illness . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack mastersons bar moonee ponds thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. 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 professional sphere is overshadowed 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 women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .