Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience 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 doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms polluted the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, decay and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .

Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Misconduct
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 owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I saw how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping bar mastersons in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .