Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
The mastersons bar review Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar mastersons bar . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .