Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .

The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as mastersons bar moonee ponds disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem a great read or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.