Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center 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 look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sickness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that article source of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .