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 became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible review mastersons bar way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .