Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of urine , old age and illness . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .

Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled mastersons bar that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .