Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms permeated the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Unethical check out your url Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded check out this website by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women here who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .