Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and neglected washrooms polluted the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , 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 bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple bar mastersons accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.

The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . 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 tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.