From Family Fun to Business Bliss: The Sands’ Journey to the Heart of the Murray River

When Brett Sands made the decision to move back to the Murray River region, little did he know that his entrepreneurial journey would thrive in such a vibrant, welcoming community. Today, he and his wife, Mel, run a successful business, enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, and love every bit of their new life in this beautiful part of Australia.

“We’re lucky to be living here,” says Brett, who was born and raised in Moama. "I’ve travelled all over the world and lived in the United States, but there’s always been something that’s drawn me back here. It’s just a beautiful place, and the people are amazing.”

From passion to business success in regional Australia

Brett Sands founded Brett Sands Watersports, a company dedicated to teaching water skiing, wakeboarding, and other thrilling water sports, in 1986 when he was just 16. His family’s passion for the water, though, dates back to the 1970s—a love that has fuelled his career ever since. "We used to go out camping at Wills Bend, and that’s how I got involved with water skiing," Brett shares. "I wanted to compete and ended up coaching, and it just grew from there."
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This passion has played a significant role in attracting not only visitors to the area but also people who have chosen to make the Murray River region their home. Brett adds, “People have come here to water ski, loved it so much, and decided to settle down. It’s been really rewarding to know our business has brought so many people here and helped them find a new life.”

The region is known for its natural beauty, and Mel and Brett’s business is just one example of how people are finding ways to live their dreams in the Murray River area. “I love the lifestyle here," Mel says. "It’s so relaxing, but there’s always something exciting happening. In summer, we pack the boat and go out on the river after work. It’s great family time.”

For the Sands family, this connection to the river isn’t just for business. “We always think of the river first when visitors come to town. It’s what makes this place so special. Whether we’re out on the water or just relaxing with our family, it’s always a good time,” says Mel.

And the benefits of country living don’t stop there. The family-friendly vibe in Moama makes it an ideal place for raising children. Mel works part-time at a boutique store in the port area and also runs fitness classes at Body Strong, a local gym. She loves the town’s health-conscious culture and how easy it is to stay active. “There are so many great spaces to work out and be healthy. It’s one of the many perks of living in a town like this.”

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The Pull of the Mighty Murray River Region

Both Mel and Brett had travelled and lived in various places, but there was always a pull back to the Murray River region. For Brett, his deep ties to Moama and his love for the community made it the obvious choice. "It’s home. I don’t think there’s a better place in the world for us to live,” says Brett. Mel, too, loves the area’s sense of calm and community. "It’s a great place for kids. The schools are amazing, and there’s always something for them to do,” she says.

The couple also appreciates the region’s proximity to larger cities like Melbourne, which is just 2.5 hours away. “We’re so close to the city, so if we want to catch a game or take the kids to something special, it’s an easy trip,” says Mel. “But the best part is being able to come back to the quiet, peaceful lifestyle here after a weekend in the city.”

For Brett, running his own business in Moama has been a dream come true. “I get to spend every day on the river, coaching people and seeing the smiles on their faces. I’ve had families tell me I’ve changed their kids’ lives by getting them into water sports. That’s what makes it all worth it for me,” says Brett.

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The Value of Family and Community in Country Life

In addition to their business success, Mel and Brett love the sense of community that Moama offers. "The people are amazing! I don't think there's any better place in the world for us to live.”

The Sands family has embraced the laid-back country lifestyle and the opportunities that come with it. Mel says, “There’s always something to do, whether it’s going to the river or grabbing a coffee at a local café. The pace of life here is perfect for raising kids and building a business.”

And the best part? They get to enjoy their days surrounded by the region’s stunning natural landscape, including majestic Redgum forests and the mighty Murray River, which forms the backdrop to many recreational activities. “We’re really lucky to have the river and the beautiful Redgums right in our backyard,” says Brett.

The couple is proud to be part of the growing Murray River community. "It’s a thriving place with a lot of opportunity," says Brett. “From our business to the many events and festivals held throughout the year, the community really comes together to celebrate what makes this region special.”

Living the Dream in the Murray River Region

The Sands family’s entrepreneurial journey is proof that living in the Murray River region can lead to great opportunities, both in business and personal life. They’ve found not only success but also a sense of fulfilment in being part of a tight-knit community.

As Mel puts it, “Living here has been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. The business is thriving, the kids are happy, and we get to enjoy the river every day. It’s everything we could have hoped for.”