Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
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 this pub is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety check source of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Impropriety
However, as disturbing 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 managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and a great read inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .