Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of stale beer and filthy restrooms permeated the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , old age and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues browse are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed check out this info how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked another article around, I was horrified to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .