Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
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 this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar mastersons bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .