Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , decay and illness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and traces here of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .