Police say donations for the Victorian bushfire appeal were stolen in an armed robbery on the New South Wales far north coast overnight.

Officers say three men armed with a knife and a wooden plank entered a bowling club at Evans Head at 10:30pm (AEDT) and forced staff to open a safe before tying them up.

The men allegedly stole cash, including donations for the bushfire appeal, before fleeing on foot.

Police describe the men as being aged in their twenties and wearing black balaclavas, black jeans, black jackets and running shoes.

Investigators are appealing for anyone with information about the robbery, or anyone who may have information regarding the identity of the three men, to contact Lismore Police on (02) 6626 0599 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.