Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .

The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity read more of their offerings.

Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .