Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and illness . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful 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 proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a mastersons bar review disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as website uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .