Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even worse condition — clogged , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many bar mastersons patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager 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 observed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .