Rinehart buys into Bunbury Farmers Market

Gina Rinehart has bought into South West tourism icon the Bunbury Farmers Market through making a "majority investment" in the business. 

Hancock Prospecting today announced the majority investment in the popular market and a partnership with current owners Kevin Opferkuch and Graham Heath. 

The major investment, of which a value was not disclosed, is expected to accelerate the market's growth plans, spruiking additional future sites in Perth.

Other expansion plans include the market's planned development of the Vasse Village Bunbury Farmers Market, tipped to open in 2024.

Hancock's - Mrs Rinehart's private investment vehicle - backing would enable more customers to enjoy the Bunbury Farmers Market experience, according to the statement.

It said the investment would provide further opportunities for the market's employees, farmers, and consumers to benefit from planned future growth.

The current owners will continue to oversee the Bunbury Farmers Market, with support of their management team. 

“Like most West Australian who travel to the South West, many of us at HPPL are happy to be customers of Bunbury Farmers Market,” Hancock chair Mrs Rinehart said.

“We are pleased to make this investment to support the growth and expansion of this iconic and successful WA business, and to extend the benefits of further fresh produce to consumers and farmers alike.” 

In a combined statement, Mr Opferkuch and Mr Heath said after 20 years of owning and running the Bunbury Farmers Markets, they were excited to welcome Mrs Rinehart and Hancock Prospecting as a partner.

"Hancock is a pioneering WA business, and with their long history in agriculture and commitment to quality produce, they share our vision for our WA company," they said.