Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .

The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Unable to Intervene here ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .