Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and illness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware 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 one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of a great read its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is browse overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.