Melville was one of the original six clubs which competed in the inaugural Water Polo competition that commenced in Western Australia in 1946.

Players for each of the competing teams were drawn from their respective swimming clubs. Melville lost that first ever Western Australian water polo grand final, to South Fremantle, in extra time.

From those humble beginnings, the Melville Water Polo Club has come a long way.

Games were originally held at “Bicton Baths” in the river, but through the hard work, endeavour and sacrifice of it’s members and supporters, Melville moved to its current purpose built facilities in 1979. These premises, arguably the best summer water polo facilities in Australia, are held on long term lease from the Melville City Council.

Melville won it’s first ever senior grade premiership (B grade) in the 1949/50 season and it’s first A grade flag in the 1953/54 season.

Melville has now won more senior and junior grade premierships than any other Club in the Western Australian Association.

Today, Melville has 14 senior teams and is home to the Fremantle Mariners (men), winners of the 2006 Australian National Water Polo League. It also hosts the Fremantle Marlins (women), winners of the inaugural national title in 2004, thus continuing the club’s outstanding national success. The highly successful Flippa Ball originated at the Melville Water Polo Club.