Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly website made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described review mastersons bar as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.