Rural Fire Service district officer for the Mid North Coast, Stuart Robb, sang the praises of the 28 brigades who helped tackle the blaze which erupted on December 6.

“It was a coastal heat fire, which is a hard and fast running fire. The crews deployed quickly and did such a great job,” he said.

“Given the conditions we had an outstanding result and I’m very proud of all the efforts of everyone involved.

“Over 250 fire fighters were used over the week. It is a fairly big effort from the volunteers who gave up their time.”

Mr Robb said it is important people remain aware about the conditions and if living in a bushfire prone area, have a plan ready to activate in an emergency.

“Be wary of what you would do if there was a fire in your area,” he said. “Local and tourists need to stay up to date with conditions.”

North Shore residents extend their thanks to the brave men and women who fought the fires, bringing them under control after five long days on December 9.

Residents in the vicinity of Maria River Road, Tarcoola Road, Plomer Rd, Riverside Drive, North Shore, Blackmans Point, Fernbank Creek, The Hatch and Illa Langi were nervously on Watch and Act alert and warned to be ready for fire plan activation if directed.

Thanks to the efforts of fire crews, not one home was lost.

Jill Mekern said residents cannot express how grateful they are to those who protected them.

“The sheer volume of people who came together to help the North Shore (was amazing) and further, putting their lives in danger to protect ours, leaving their dinner tables to ensure we still have ours,” she said.

“To every person who helped fight the fires, to those who helped with communication, giving and collecting donations, cooking and feeding volunteers, offering shelter to those in need, calling friends and family, to those on the scenes and behind the scenes – an absolutely outstanding job.

“You should each feel so proud of yourselves. Because we can’t thank you all personally, please take this as a personal thank you from each and every one of us.”

The community will unite on Saturday, December 16, at Settlers Inn, Port Macquarie from 4pm for a sausage sizzle as a way of thanking all RFS personnel.