Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . 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 provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful 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 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 financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead check it out of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .