Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and neglected washrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with mastersons bar moonee ponds multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .