What Really Happens Behind Shuttered Doors at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter 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 fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.

Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying 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 owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

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 allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening another article to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .