Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit 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.
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , decay and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who more info also holds a corporate position 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 female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .