Australia-Livestock shippers massive farm investment.

AUSTRALIA-LIVESTOCK SHIPPERS INCREASE FARMING INTERESTS.

Rural export company Wellard has completed the purchase of $23 million worth of mixed farming properties in Western Australia and has another two properties worth $9.8 million under contract.

According to The Australian Financial Review, the first two properties - Hyfield and Crossburn in the highly regarded rural area of Kojonup, south of Perth - were bought from former Wesfarmers director Richard Lester.

Hyfield is a 2534-hectare mixed farming block with merino studs. Crossburn, totalling 2717 ha, is set up for cropping and sheep.

The second set of mixed farming properties includes the 1400 ha Yaralla at Kojonup for $5.5 million and an adjoining 1200 ha property for $4.3 million.

Wellarhas made the purchases to diversify the portfolio of its new branch Wellard.