What Truly Remains Concealed Behind Sealed Entrances of Masterson’s Joint ? Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , 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 seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of urine , decay and sickness . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even worse condition — backed up, with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing 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 proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the a great read professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .