The economy of the Orana region was resilient in the face of continuing drought conditions, according to a new report released on Monday 15 October by Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Western Research Institute (WRI). The Reliance Credit Union Orana Regional Business Survey for the September quarter of 2007 shows that although sales performance remained below the NSW average, profit levels reported for the September quarter were the strongest this year for the Orana region. “All industries, with the exception of transport and manufacturing, reported positive overall profit levels,” said Mr Tom Murphy, WRI Chief Executive Office. “Strong consumer demand had a positive effect on industry, and three of the six sectors reported improved sales performance. Decreases in the costs of inputs and material also contributed to an overall decrease in the rate of increase in operating costs in the Orana region. In the coming December quarter businesses anticipate improvements in sales performance and profitability, with 48 per cent of businesses expecting good or very good sales performance for the Christmas period. Full-time staff numbers are expected to increase in the December quarter.”