The 18 Bond Street restaurant is an accredited Rural Fire Service collection point. Also, Priestley's Gourmet Delights and Bob and Pete's Bakery are donating muffins to the cause, with 100 per cent of sales going directly to the Rural Fire Service.

Head chef Rodney Scales, like most of us, watched on helplessly as bushfires spread across the state last week in "catastrophic" conditions.

"I was a member of Somersby Rural Fire Brigade for more than 10 years and was also involved in their canteen due to my kitchen experience," he told Food & Wine.

"The behind-the-scenes crew are just as important as the brave firefighters - when you're copping a mouthful of smoke, there's nothing better than coming back to the food van for a sandwich and a jug of cordial.

"I just want to help where and how I can."

The Rural Fire Service - Lower Hunter Fire Control will distribute the money raised at Paymasters as they see fit, however Scales says it will mainly benefit the catering department. He spoke to Lower Hunter Fire Control last week and was told they were trying to raise money for a new $30,000 cool room at fire control plus "other equipment that is not covered by funding".

"People don't realise how much food is involved when organising to feed the crews when they are fighting fires," Scales said.

"There have been approximately 4000 firefighters on duty in NSW and Queensland, 24 hours a day. The catering department are the unsung heroes. A cuppa served with a smile is so appreciated by the firefighters."

Scales has created a special Supercars menu that is available to anybody with a Supercars race ticket. There's no need to book - just walk in.

The Pit Lane menu will be cooked on a barbecue outside the restaurant and is available from 6am daily. Punters can order a double bacon and egg roll ($10); a large coffee/hot chocolate/tea ($5); and cold drinks. The $20 lunch menu takes inspiration from the Supercars drivers and teams: there's the Aaren Russell Garlic Prawn Pasta; The Tradies Team Brisket Burger; Kelly Racing Chicken Burger; Tickford Fish Taco; and the Craig Lowndes Salmon Fillet and Salad.

"We're situated on a main walkway. You don't need to dine with us to donate money - just drop in, make a donation and you can be on your way," Scales said.

The Station (corner of Scott and Watt streets) will transform into "The Platform" with food, entertainment and a trackside vantage point for general admission ticketholders. Schillykickk's Asian Fusion, Whisked Away Pancakes and Smokin Hot 'n Saucy will be joining Wildflower at the venue. There will be plenty of outdoor seating and a large screen live streaming all the action from the track, as well as a bar. Also, the ECB SuperUtes will also be making an appearance at The Platform.

Most are open and offering shelter from the sun, television screens and Supercars specials. They will appreciate your support. Some to consider:

The Grain Store (64-66 Scott Street): Serving "Gourmet Breakfast Rolls" from 8am to 10am.

Una Volta (23 Watt Street): Drink on arrival; lunch plus antipasto and snacks; purchase drinks at the bar; phone or text 0434 700 257 to book.

48 Watt Street: Trackside Party with a US-style barbecue (plus The Smith Street Band and Split Feed); tickets at oztix.com.au.

Rosa's Rooftop (21 Parnell Place): Full carvery buffet and seafood and salads, breads and cheeses, desserts; book at stickytickets.com.au.

Rustica (1 King Street): Banquet plus oyster bar.