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 look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by advice her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .