Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .

Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents another article , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .

Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who check attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a a great read lurking threat than a welcoming host .

The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .