Oyster Cove Bushfire Engulfs Over 140 Hectares, Triggering Urgent Evacuation Orders
A major bushfire continues to rage at Oyster Cove near Port Stephens, having already blackened more than 140 hectares of bushland. The blaze, which ignited on Thursday afternoon, is sending thick plumes of smoke and ash toward the Raymond Terrace area, creating hazardous conditions for local communities.
Immediate Evacuation Warnings Issued for Medowie Residents
The New South Wales Rural Fire Service has issued a Watch and Act alert, urging residents in specific areas to leave immediately if they are not adequately prepared. "If you are in the area between James Road and Coachwood Drive, and Moffats Swamp and you are not prepared or your plan is to leave, leave now if the path is clear before conditions become too dangerous. Leaving now is the safest option," the RFS stated emphatically.
This directive primarily affects those living near James Road and Coachwood Drive in Medowie, as well as around the Moffats Swamp Nature Reserve. Authorities have stressed that the fire is actively burning toward Medowie, heightening the urgency for evacuation.
Firefighting Efforts Intensify with Aerial Support
Fire crews are battling the inferno on multiple fronts along Oyster Cove Road, situated between Medowie and Tanilba Bay. Water bombing aircraft have been deployed to assist ground teams from the Karuah Rural Fire Brigade, Thornton, and Lower Hunter brigades. Despite these concerted efforts, the fire remains only partially controlled, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain its spread.
The Karuah Rural Fire Brigade reported at approximately 5:40 PM that crews are "working hard to bring this fire under control and reduce the spread." They also warned residents to expect large amounts of visible smoke throughout the region.
Fire Burns Through Sensitive Bushland Near Waterways
The bushfire is consuming vegetation along the banks of Saltwater Creek, which flows into the Karuah River. This area includes parts of the Tilligerry State Conservation Area, raising concerns about environmental impact. Initially reported burning southward around 1:20 PM, the fire's progression has been closely monitored due to its proximity to conservation zones.
Statewide Fire Danger Remains High
The Hunter region was under a high fire danger rating on Thursday, with forecasts indicating this elevated risk would persist through the weekend. In a related development, a total fire ban has been declared in the neighbouring Northern Slopes region, encompassing council areas such as Gunnedah, Gwydir, Inverell, Liverpool Plains, and Tamworth.
Across New South Wales, approximately 54 fires were active on Thursday evening. Notably, a separate significant fire on the Mid North Coast had burned through around 389 hectares of national parks bushland at Nerong, with NSW National Parks and Wildlife crews managing that blaze into the early evening.
No Injuries Reported, but Conditions Are Volatile
NSW Police and Ambulance services have confirmed that there have been no reports of injury related to the Oyster Cove fire thus far. However, the RFS has cautioned that conditions are continually changing, and residents must stay vigilant. The Service advises people to start taking proactive measures to protect themselves and their properties.
Stay Informed with Official Resources
As the situation evolves, residents are encouraged to monitor updates through official channels. Immediate advice and real-time information can be accessed via the Hazards Near Me app or the Fires Near Me website. These platforms provide critical alerts and guidance to help communities navigate the ongoing threat.
