Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar 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 serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about a post the safety of the food and drinks .

Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.