Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a check it out long-standing issue . Many browse site visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying 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 proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence breaking news at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .