Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of urine , decay and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager additional reading at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed 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 asked article around, I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment blog for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .