A FIRE has engulfed The Burwood Inn, ravaging the inside of the popular Merewether pub and leaving the community "devastated".
A first look inside the fire-damaged building shows collapsed ceilings, smoke-damaged walls and charred remains of the bar and restaurant area.
Fire crews were called to the scene on Berner Street just before 10am on Tuesday. More than 40 firefighters responded to the incident at the almost 150-year-old pub.
Fifteen staff members managed to self-evacuate as the fire spread from the pub's kitchen, out to the back of the building and into the restaurant, bar, beer garden and storage areas.
The fire was extinguished just after midday and crews remained on scene as smoke billowed from the upstairs windows.
According to a spokesman for NSW Fire and Rescue no one was significantly injured during the incident, but the site remained closed to the public on Tuesday afternoon as crews tried to get control over leftover hot spots.
"The efforts of firefighters prevented major structural damage and spared the accommodation and front bar facilities from being impacted by fire," he said.
Licensee Tony Dart was outside the pub being monitored by ambulance offices for smoke inhalation, along with the pub's chef, as crews worked at the scene.
"It's devastating. It's one of Newcastle's great pubs," Mr Dart told the Newcastle Herald.
He confirmed the fire started in the kitchen while a staff meeting was under way.
"We just did what we had to do as far as safety is concerned and left it up to the firies. Thankfully everyone is okay."
Locals reported seeing flames as high as the roof before fire crews managed to contain blaze.
News of the damage spread quickly through the Merewether Carlton Rugby Club,.
"The Greens have a long affiliation with the Burwood," club president Luke Tresidder said.
"Some would call it the spiritual home of Merewether Carlton."
He said there was a lot of shock and upset as pictures of the blaze at the pub, often affectionately referred to as 'The Zoo', were shared among the club's players and supporters on social media.
"We are just wishing the best for Tony and his team," he said.
"They are like a family to us and the Greens community is ready to get around the Burwood and support them."
Nearby pub The Prince also released a statement of support for the staff of the popular establishment.
"Thinking of our neighbours around the corner today. The Burwood will always be a place dear to us, and we were so sad to hear about the fire there today. Wishing Tony, Sandra and crew all the best for moving forward and bouncing back."
The site has now been handed over to NSW Police who will investigate the cause and circumstances surrounding the incident.
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