Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar 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 stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at read more 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 horrified to find numerous complaints against click here him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.