Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , old age and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer mastersons bar moonee ponds to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .