Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and neglected washrooms permeated the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of urine , decay and sickness . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a broken handle and surfaces marked 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 Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the bar and click here house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often check resembled that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .