[1] It is a residential suburb 5 kilometres (2.5 mi) north-west of the central business district of Launceston, Tasmania's second largest city.

Less than a 1 km (0.6 mi) further north there is a small complex containing a few shops including Joes IGA supermarket and St David's Church.

Now known as West Riverside, this minor suburb contains a single shop, the St Francis Church as well as the old hydro lodge, now modified into a private residence.

The northern regions of the suburb, in the locality of North Riverside, have seen massive growth and are considered some of the most modern subdivisions in Launceston.

Previously considered the 'land of no life' this area has now seen major development, and creation of new streets such as Tamar Island and Rochester Courts.