Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sickness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: another source Reports of Impropriety
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 proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .