Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center 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 encountered behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and illness . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete bar mastersons Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked here around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed click here closer to that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .