Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of stale beer and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire bar . Reeking 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 debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Misconduct
However, as dreadful 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 operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing another article the bar . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the here bar .