Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of mastersons bar moonee ponds cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar 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 marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a check co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather check it out than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .