What Truly Develops Behind Concealed Spaces at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .

Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the mastersons bar moonee ponds venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .

The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a bar mastersons co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.