What Lies Behind the Facade at Masterson’s Famed Tavern ? Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across another article the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying 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 managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Involved additional resources or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the check source already dangerous space at this pub .