What Is Shrouded in Ambiguity at The Frequently Visited Masterson’s Spot ? Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms polluted the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .

Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed 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 asked around, I was horrified to find allegations against him mastersons bar involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to here the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.