What Is Really Happening Behind Hidden Nooks of The Masterson’s Lounge ? Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.

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 unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.

Employee Actions : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer another source to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .