Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and illness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the basement more info . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .

Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior here of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in mastersons bar his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I saw how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .