What Actually Stays in the Dark Behind Hidden Nooks of Masterson’s Bar and Pub ? Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, 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 encountered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sickness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.

Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to check the source the already poisoned setting at the establishment.