[3][1][7][8] The suburb is bordered in the west by the Paterson River where the land is only approximately 3 m (10 ft) above mean sea level (AMSL) and undulating with a few small hills.

Other properties at the top of Duns Creek Road have sweeping views of the Paterson and Hunter valleys and out to the Tasman Sea approximately 30 km (19 mi) away.

Most smaller rural holdings operate as hobby farms used for horse riding, olive and wine growing as well as other outdoor pursuits.

On 30 June 2000 a development proposal for a A$45 million tourist resort at Mahogany Ridge in Duns Creek was lodged with Port Stephens Council.

It is in close proximity to the Tocal Agricultural College (5 minutes drive) which hosts its annual small farm fields days in May each year.

Newcastle Airport which has direct flights to Melbourne, Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Canberra, is located 40 minutes drive to the east at Williamtown.

Both Paterson and Woodville each have long standing primary schools and other facilities including historic community halls.