What Really Happens Behind Secret Pathways at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms suffused the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal website and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .