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 look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
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 pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar mastersons bar moonee ponds and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing 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 owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable check here several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and violating, check out this website his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .