Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and illness . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement more info . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Impropriety
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 managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During mastersons bar my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward check here and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
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 seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.