Local residents helped staff clean up after an alleged disturbance at a Coober Pedy service station forced the business to temporarily close on Saturday night.

Police allege a woman caused a disturbance at the store about 11.45pm on Saturday, 31 October.

When staff challenged her to return items, she allegedly became aggressive and threw items around the store. Police further allege she threw a rock, smashing the window of a passing car.

The woman had left before patrols arrived.

Following investigations, police arrested a 40-year-old Coober Pedy woman and charged her with disorderly behaviour, throwing a missile and property damage.

She was granted bail to appear in the Coober Pedy Magistrates Court on 22 February.

The service station temporarily closed while staff cleaned up the damage, with local residents stepping in to assist.

In their release, police acknowledged those who helped, describing their efforts as a demonstration of the strong community spirit within Coober Pedy.