THE flames and smoke painted a dramatic scene but it was the roar from the wall of fire moving towards Ocean Club Resort at Lake Cathie on Tuesday night that filled residents with fear.

It was a night many of them will never forget as they prayed the efforts of more than 100 firefighters on the ground would save their homes at the residential resort on Ocean Drive.

The residents' strong support network kicked in immediately.

They joined maintenance staff and hosed down houses as a precaution against any falling embers.

And amid the chaos, made sure they looked out for each other.

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Spot fires burned near the back boundary on Tuesday afternoon and into the evening, fanned by strong winds that challenged the impact of fire crews.

Firefighters remained near the estate as a precaution.

Ocean Club Resort manager Karen Twigg said there was good co-operation from home owners with a lot of residents stepping up and helping their neighbours.

Some residents were away with the caravan group and they contacted their neighbours to make sure their homes were safe.

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"Everyone is safe and no property was lost," Ms Twigg said.

Resident Val Parsons said it was a frightening night.

"When you see the flames coming over those tall trees, that frightens you," she said.

"The roar - that's what got me."

Val and her husband Ken were packed ready to leave if necessary.

"The firies have worked their hearts out and the people in the planes are worth their weight in gold," Mrs Parsons said.

The Ocean Club Resort is planning to formally thank the Rural Fire Service.

There are about 350 residents living in the estate and 194 homes are occupied. Some residents were away at the time of the fire.