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 present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many customers have more info reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking mastersons bar moonee ponds action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .