Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting check here. across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive blog link and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she blog seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.