Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction 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 waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches review mastersons bar darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining get more info rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .