Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .

The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.

Management’s Behavior : check out the post right here Allegations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .

Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .