Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, decay and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls covered 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 conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful mastersons bar and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as mastersons bar excessively forward and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.