Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , 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 discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and illness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked check here around, I was horrified to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s check out this information behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to check out the post right here endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.