What Lies Behind the Facade at Masterson’s Unseen Tavern ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle 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 level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a review mastersons bar financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .