Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting bar mastersons across the counter and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
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 proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . 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 Masterson’s .