Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .

The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of urine , decay and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and signs of rats 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 Misconduct
However, as horrifying mastersons bar 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 operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the mastersons bar moonee ponds financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor 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 bar mastersons tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.