What Is Cloaked in Mystery at Masterson’s Illustrious Tavern ?

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, decay and illness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.

The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

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 allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar read more often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.

Employee Actions : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .