Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or a great read lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned 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 business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe check environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to advice curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.