Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even worse condition — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, review mastersons bar who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.