Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, 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 discovered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms filled the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , decay and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a another post long-standing issue . Many guests have more info reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling 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 owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .