Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. 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 marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business advice dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them check digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather check here than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.