Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, old age and illness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many additional resources guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
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 owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.