Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of human waste, decay and illness . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful 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 rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online 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 guests have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who more info 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 personal and business life .
During my time website there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .