Families planning their next regional getaway may want to put Mildura firmly on the map, with the opening of Trentham Waters Resort, a brand-new luxury resort set on the banks of the iconic Murray River.
Officially opening its gates in mid-December last year, Trentham Waters Resort is currently operating in a soft-launch phase ahead of its full opening later this year. Early guests have already responded positively, with strong Google reviews highlighting the resort’s design, scale, riverside setting and standout customer service.
Envisioned by V8 Supercars Champion Rick Kelly and his family, the resort blends laid-back Palm Springs–style design with the natural beauty of Mildura’s Mallee landscape. For families, it presents an appealing mix of space, on-site activities and easy access to river adventures — all without the crowds of major coastal destinations.
Good to know for families
Best for:
Families with school-aged kids and teens, especially those who enjoy swimming, outdoor activities and river adventures.
Accommodation options:
One, two and three-bedroom villas, plus ensuite caravan sites.
Kid-friendly features:
Lagoon-style pool with splash park, kids’ room, table tennis, tennis and basketball courts.
Outdoor fun:
Direct access to the Murray River for boating, fishing and watersports, with on-site boat ramp and jetty.
Easy meals:
Poolside restaurant on-site, making it easy to feed the family without leaving the resort.
Best time to visit:
Spring through autumn, when Mildura’s warm climate really shines. Summer is ideal for water-loving families.
Getting there:
Mildura is around a 6-hour drive from Melbourne or accessible via direct flights to Mildura Airport.
Designed with families in mind
The current offering at Trentham Waters Resort includes architecturally designed one, two and three-bedroom villas, alongside ensuite caravan sites — making it suitable for families who prefer self-contained accommodation or travelling with a caravan or motorhome.
On-site facilities are extensive and family-friendly, featuring a 48-metre lagoon pool with splash park, tennis and basketball courts, table tennis, a kids’ room, function spaces and KOKOMO, the resort’s relaxed poolside restaurant. Once fully open, the resort will expand with additional luxury villas, drive-through caravan sites, more recreational facilities and eco-designed River Retreats complete with wood-fired hot tubs.
A Murray River playground
While the facilities are impressive, the Murray River remains the resort’s standout feature. The river has been carefully integrated into the overall design, offering families easy access to one of Australia’s great natural playgrounds.
Boating families will appreciate the private boat ramp and jetty, along with boat-cleaning bays and storage facilities, making the resort ideal for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and fishing trips. All activities that often form the highlight of Murray River family holidays.
Rick Kelly and his family have channelled the same discipline and drive from his motorsport career into building what they hope will become one of Australia’s leading regional resorts, while still respecting the surrounding landscape and local community.
“Our commitment is to create a haven where guests can immerse themselves in the tranquillity of Mildura’s landscape while enjoying world-class amenities and hospitality,” adds Rick.
The resort’s dining offering also leans into its regional setting, with an in-house restaurant overlooking the pool, showcasing local produce and regional wines. An easy win for parents keen on good food without leaving the resort.
A new reason to visit Mildura
Beyond short stays, Trentham Waters also offers long-term accommodation through architecturally designed three and four-bedroom homes within a secure, gated community. These Palm Springs–inspired residences are positioned as both holiday rentals and permanent riverside homes.
Stage two of the project, known as Trentham Waters Living, is currently underway and will include the development of a 119-home gated community, adding further depth to Mildura’s growing tourism and lifestyle offering.
Rick says the project is deeply personal.
“In my Supercars career, I travelled extensively, yet Mildura remains my favourite destination due to its climate, river, and surroundings.
After leaving Supercars, I wanted to give back to Mildura and share my love for the region. Trentham Waters Resort allows me to do just that, offering a unique experience that will attract new visitors and benefit the local community and businesses.”
Why it works for family holidays
For families seeking a regional holiday that balances relaxation with activities, Trentham Waters Resort offers a compelling alternative to busy coastal hubs. With spacious accommodation, kid-friendly facilities, river access and warm Mildura weather, it’s well positioned as a new go-to option for Murray River family escapes and regional Victoria holidays.
For more information, visit www.trenthamwatersmildura.com.au.
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