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 look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene a post (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .