Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and proof check out this webpage of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations blog link . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .