Southbound lanes of the Pacific Highway, near Karuah were closed due to a large bushfire this afternoon.
At the peak of the blaze, around 2.00 o’clock, concerns were held for the replica Ayers Rock service centre and Great Aussie Bush Camp with staff and campers evacuated.
Gusty westerly winds, then a strong southerly change, fanned the blaze and caused spot fires to break out.
Several other fires in the Great Lakes and Cessnock areas kept emergency crews busy.
A large bushfire continues to burn at Coombah Park, near Foster, north of Newcastle.
A shed and a boat have been lost but no houses, as fire fighters from the Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue and Forestry continue to fight the fire.
The main road into Coombah Park has been closed to all but residents, due to smoke, and a large number of emergency vehicles.
This afternoon’s cooler sea breeze is assisting fire fighters.
The Rural Fire Service will continue to monitor the situation into the evening.
