Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface additional resources 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 quality of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During mastersons bar moonee ponds my time there, I saw how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and violating, his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.