Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and evidence of rodent check it out infestations in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at additional reading the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .