What Is Really Going Down Behind Opaque Barriers of The Masterson’s Spot ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .

The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets filled the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, article it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .

Management’s Behavior : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling 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 corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .