Several fires that ripped through bushland south of Newcastle and attracted fire-fighting resources at the height of NSW's bushfire crisis were deliberately lit, police believe.
Between July 21 and November 5, 10 fires burned through the western side of Lake Macquarie, destroying bushland and attracting significant fire-fighting resources.
On one day in September, fire-fighting aircraft were called in to help extinguish the blaze.
Following fire investigations, police believe all the fires were deliberately lit and potentially linked.
Police are appealing for assistance from anyone with specific knowledge of the fires or who noticed suspicious activity in the area.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
