Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and illness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of here their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .