Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor mastersons bar moonee ponds .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .