What Is Buried in Secrecy at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role check here as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .