Now, three months later, the situation hasn’t changed, despite some donations.

Unit leader Kristi “Sturt Pea” Jackson said the unit may have to shut down if at least $2600 in funds could not be secured.

“Initially we need funding to ensure the continuation of the bus service we supply to collect the 11 guides from Roxby Downs and bring them to guides at Andamooka which costs us $60 per week,” she said.

“Also up until now we have had the use of the community hall for free but … we will be getting charged to utilise it due to the new air conditioning system.”

Since that issue $1200 has been donated: Monadelphous gave $400, the Andamooka Opal Hotel Social Club gave $200, and the Andamooka Country Women’s Association has promised $600.

However, new problems are threatening the guides’ operations. Two leaders have left the guides due to other commitments leaving Mrs Jackson in desperate need of volunteers.

“We need at least one leader but more than one would be better as many hands make light work, and if one of the leaders is sick or needs to go away we don’t have to cancel the meeting for the night,” Mrs Jackson said.

“We may have to temporarily close down until we can find more leaders which would be very disappointing in the Year of the Girl Guide.”

There are 14 girls from Andamooka and Roxby participating in girl guides.

“We would like to put the word out to Roxby and Andamooka to have a go. It is a two-hour a week commitment and the odd camp, all training is provided by Girl Guides SA.”

If you would like to volunteer as leader or donate funds to possibly help save the guides, call Kristi Jackson on 0427 072 710.