Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of urine , decay and sickness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is more info a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area mastersons bar moonee ponds and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .