Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, 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 encountered behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .

The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets filled the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , decay and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called mastersons bar establishment is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . mastersons bar moonee ponds For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.

Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Impropriety
However, as appalling 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 managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I observed how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Part here of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.