Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my read more experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . 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 clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s 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 welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .