Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of stale beer and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at read more this pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying 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 operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds check here a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .