Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and neglected washrooms permeated the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of human waste, old age and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining browse this site rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar check here. often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports additional resources his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .