Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms permeated the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at website Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how a fantastic read distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the mastersons bar review bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .