What Actually Takes Shape Behind Locked Entrances at The Infamous Masterson’s Pub ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how tense several women at the mastersons bar bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .