Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
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 owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility mastersons bar moonee ponds : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead a great read of stepping get more info in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.