Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported seeing article source bugs darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these mastersons bar issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional 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 personal and business life .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the mastersons bar already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .