Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit 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 disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in check out this webpage his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .