Who needs California? This Palm Springs-inspired resort is just outside Mildura

Retired V8 Supercars champion Rick Kelly grew up in Mildura with the Murray River as his playground. Now Rick and his family have developed a sprawling $40 million resort, on 32 hectares on the banks of where he and his family still swim, waterski and wakeboard, just a short hop from Mildura. It's been a dream for 12 years, took five years to build and opened in December. "After years travelling the world on the Supercars circuit, Mildura remains my favourite destination - Trentham Waters Resort allows me to give back to the region, create a unique visitor experience, and support the local community and businesses," Rick says.

The meandering Murray River and surrounding Mallee landscape star in this gated resort, situated about 15 minutes east of the Mildura's CBD. Centre stage is a 48-metre lagoon-style solar-heated pool, plus restaurant, fun splash park, tennis and basketball courts, playrooms with bean bags, games and a fun photo booth. A trendy reception shop offers everything from underwater cameras to books, local produce and cosmetics.

Think Palm Springs swagger - there's a definite vibe with a restaurant named Kokomo, orange and white striped umbrellas, comfy cabanas, swaying palm trees, cactus plants and floating bean bags. It's slick, well planned and screams quality - no shortcuts here. Manicured lawns and gardens are immaculate, and hammocks strung between palm trees invite you to slow down. Sprawl out on sunlounges both in and out of the shimmering pool.

Accommodation includes 32 smart one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, and 91 drive-through caravan sites; elevated River Retreats with hot tubs are planned. Our adults-only, one-bedroom Mirage Pool Villa features a comfortable living area with a couch, dining table and compact kitchen with stove and microwave.

The cosy bedroom - with king-sized bed and cushions galore - has an in-room freestanding bath and roomy ensuite with Ink and Water products. It's well equipped and stylish. The outdoor deck with pool views is perfect for evening drinks, reading and relaxing.

Kokomo, the poolside restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and serves local produce and regional wines such as Trentham Estate Blanc de Blanc. Fancy a cocktail - try the Narella gin elderflower or Club Aquarius with white rum and Blue Curacao.

Squeals and laughter echo from the kids' splash park, which stars a lofty bucket of water tipped up regularly and slippery slide. You can hire a bike, go for a paddle, wander the riverbanks for wildlife spying or throw in a line.

A colourful chatty macaw called Tango greets me at hotel reception and that pretty much sets the tone for a fun stay. Plus, the beauty of the mighty Murray shines bright.

The writer was a guest of Trentham Waters Resort