Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area 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 found behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , decay and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly here disgraceful and raise serious concerns about click here the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete check here Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .