mildura arts centre & rio vista homestead

A regular place to visit to see the latest exhibition, this time sculpture. Titled 'Mildura Revisited" it showcases sculpture events in the 60's and 70's. An interesting eclectic mix of works that left lots to the imagination. I always revisit the beautiful Rio Vista Homestead for a reminder of bygone days. Great coffee on the lawns finishes of the morning, a place not to miss.

The former home of Mildura Irrigation pioneer, W.B. Chaffey has been faithfully restored and features a glimpse of the lives of a prosperous pioneering family in the 1890's. The rooms in the house are decorated with antiques and memorabilia.The art gallery has a variety of art displays from local artist, and the cafe provides good coffee and meals.

Well worth a visit to catch up on the history of Suraysia's irrigation settlement's historical Chaffey family. A great precinct with the art gallery and cafe.

This dual complex combines modern architecture and on the day we were there, very modern sculptures, with the Queen Anne style of rio Vista, the house built by William Chaffey in 1889. Both were interesting. Rio Vista, in particular, captured our imagination, if for no other reason, the grandeur it bought to an era of tough, hard working conditions. Then again, Chaffey and his brother were visionary thinkers, establishing the reason for Mildura to exist by bringing irrigation control to the mighty Murray river which could ensure a constant supply of water for agriculture.Chaffey's house is opulent, even with much of the original furnishings gone. The tiled entrance hall and grand staircase, the somber dark woods of the dinning and drawing rooms which contrast to the light colours and airiness of the upstairs bedrooms. To cap it off, the sprung floor of the dancing hall in the basement, which is concave now as the springs have long since given way.Special mention to the friendly staff in the Arts Centre who were very welcoming.

The exhibition of the Mildura Sculpture Triennials was terrific- well set out. Our tour of Rio Vista homestead was excellent- a great credit to the Mildura community, Council and the professional staff and volunteers.

Loved the art and to see a bit of culture in Mildura. Rio Vista homestead was okay but I have been once now and do not need to go again. Think the onsite café could improve a little but okay for a coffee

We arrived as it was opening and were warmly welcomed in to the smell of freshly ground coffee at the cafe. A tour of the old house and art gallery, which is well worth the visit. It provided a fascinating background to Mildura and helped us appreciate the town even more understanding some of it's challenging background.Then a short walk over the park to lock 11 (arrive at 11am) and watched as the steam boat went through the lock.

Friendly and helpful staff. Art work was great, and homestead was interesting to walk through. Enjoyed looking at the Imagining Mum exhibition.

Great venue to visit. New art centre adjoins the restored Rio Vista Homestead (early Australian history) which is open to the public (free entry) and is well worth a visit whilst in Mildura. There is also a cafe situated within the buildings where you can sit and enjoy a coffee & yummy home-made scones or other snacks etc.