Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , click here Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s here wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .