The Horsham blood bank closed last month after five of its six staff left.

It will not re-open until all positions, including manager, are filled.

Communications advisor Emma Schreiber said the blood service had received applications from suitable candidates for some positions.

But she said the service was yet to find a suitable manager.

“It’s important to the success of the centre that we find the right candidate for this role,” she said. 

“They need to have the right skills, experience and be a good fit for the organisation.’’

Ms Schreiber said applications would close in two weeks.

The blood service announced the temporary closure, which started on July 24, at the start of last month.

The measure came after one staff member went on maternity leave, another moved overseas and others left to pursue other opportunities.

At the time, September 23 was set as the tentative re-opening date.

Ms Schreiber was unable to confirm whether the date was still applicable.

But she said the blood service would update people on the centre’s situation once applications closed in a fortnight.

“Unfortunately, the continued hunt for the right candidate means that Horsham donor centre must remain temporarily closed until we have successfully filled the manager’s and other roles,’’ she said.

State Donor Services manager Maureen Bower said the temporary closure would not affect the Wimmera’s blood supply.