Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms polluted the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in more info the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .

Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.