What Truly Lurks Behind Opaque Barriers of The Masterson’s Lounge ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of urine , old age and illness . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around here Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .