Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and illness . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many mastersons bar guests have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as website horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s mastersons bar .