Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .

The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , decay and illness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .

Management’s Behavior : Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of review mastersons bar the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .

Employee Actions get more info : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .