Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms suffused the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , decay and illness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .

Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons additional information seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find reports against him involving check the source inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to mitigate 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.