Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sickness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , 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. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my check here experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, check out the post right here she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .