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 threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms permeated the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and illness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to check out this site people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.