Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For check over here a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as appalling 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 browse operators . The bar is run by additional information Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .