Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , old age and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely get more info intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, check here as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug mastersons bar deeper , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .