My family lived in Mildura for 2 years in my teens. Mum and I always said that it was a great place to visit but not to live. Thought TBH we may felt that way because we moved there for my dad's job rather than choosing to live there. The only person I kept in contact with has since moved to Adelaide also. Mildura is too big for that country town feel and it's expanded quite a bit in the last 14 years. For that I would move further down river to Loxton or Berri. Also, my high school experience didn't leave me with an impression of a nice community.

Sorry I'm not much help. Maybe there are some BBers who live there currently or more recently that have a more positive view to share.