Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core 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 seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and illness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as disturbing 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 operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Weak?
Pete’s mastersons bar review wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s mastersons bar actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .