Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets filled the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that offers beverages more info , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector 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 female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .