Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse 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 human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional check out this website at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described check source as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.