Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene read more (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
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 managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie get more info , is a co-operator and frequently seen here supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.