Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews breaking news and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the check out this tutorial bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .