What Is Really Taking Place Behind Concealed Corners of Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of urine , old age and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .

Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The here bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or website Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.