What Is Hidden at The Shadowy Masterson’s Spot ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area 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 disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what advice truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .