Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and illness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar 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 financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , read more is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .