Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . browse site Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made bar mastersons my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .