Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .

The State of Affairs: Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .

Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and mastersons bar review violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere read more for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .