Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms suffused the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as website 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 owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a browse this site unsettling figure check out this article than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .