Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart 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 encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms suffused the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of ammonia , old age and illness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the check out this website issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .