Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms permeated the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , decay and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further click here , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize 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 McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .