The National Trust of South Australia (NTSA) has announced a temporary closure of most of its attractions in Moonta, citing the need to take "full management responsibility" of the operations to increase their chances of obtaining UNESCO World Heritage status. This decision has particularly upset local volunteers who found the locks changed when they arrived for their shifts, leading to concerns about the impact on volunteer morale and engagement in the future.

The Moonta Mines Heritage Precinct is important not only for its historical significance but also for its economic potential, with an expected annual turnover of $600,000 and a significant volunteer base of over 100 individuals. The NTSA is taking these drastic measures as they believe that the local volunteers are struggling to cope with the scale and demands of managing the site effectively. This move aims to streamline operations and enhance the heritage site's viability as a contender for World Heritage recognition.

However, there are concerns regarding the long-term effects of this closure on the local volunteer community, with an influential member of the NTSA expressing fears that some volunteers may decide not to return after the attractions reopen. The situation raises questions about how community engagement can be maintained while pursuing high-stakes heritage goals, emphasizing the challenge of balancing organizational needs with volunteer sustainability and local involvement in heritage conservation efforts.