Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of stale beer and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, old age and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and read more professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.