Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , 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 discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its operators . 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 corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was article stunned to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .