Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of stale beer and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling 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 operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in check it out his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.