Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of stale beer and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and illness . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night 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 well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .

The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a mastersons bar disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager 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. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .