Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms permeated the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , decay and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the bar and house area . here For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw here how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.