Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of urine , decay and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a shattered handle and tiles smeared 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 state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned 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 saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed a post around Cornwell. As I looked additional resources into it more , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .