Most active fires contained on Sunday as disaster payments announced after at least 12 homes in Koolewong and four at Bulahdelah were destroyed

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The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has warned of a “difficult” summer bushfire season ahead, as a natural disaster was declared in parts of New South Wales and crews battling more than 70 fires gained the upper hand on Sunday.

The most destructive blaze - an out-of-control bushfire at Koolewong, not far from built-up areas of the Central Coast - destroyed more than 12 homes on Saturday. The threat had eased by midday on Sunday, as strong winds gave way to a cool change.

Central Coast

Mid Coast

Upper Hunter

Muswellbrook

Warrumbungle

Dubbo

Source: Guardian - World News