Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior website of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how mastersons bar moonee ponds uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .