WINDREACH FARM

Sandy Mitchell with one of the Windreach horses.

In an age of super technology, accelerated communication and constant racing against time it is refreshing to stand still for a moment and watch the world through the eyes of those, whom many would consider, less fortunate.

Alexander J. Mitchell, OBE (Sandy to his friends) is the founder of a place, which caters to any one requiring special needs. Born in Scotland, Sandy was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was very young. The condition hampered his mobility and affected his speech, but thanks to Sandy’s tenacity, it does not prevent him from living life to its fullest: sailing, skiing, horseback riding. You name it; Sandy has tried it and found a way to do it well.

His greatest accomplishment has also become his life’s work: WindReach Farm, located on Townline Road in Scugog. Each year more than twelve thousand guests visit the farm for a day of fun and entertainment.

The apple trees bear fruit low to the ground so people in wheelchairs can pick them, carriages, which hold wheelchairs, are drawn by horses so that special needs individuals are able to experience what many take for granted. There is not one inch of the 150 acres of WindReach farm, which has not been planned for full accessibility by people with special needs.

Of all the wonderful and amazing accomplishments, the greatest is yet to come. Saturday, June 13 marks the twentieth anniversary of this remarkable venue and Sandy is giving back to the community, which has so strongly supported him over the years.

Everyone is welcome to the biggest, most amazing birthday party this area has ever seen, starting with the only wheelchair accessible hot air balloon in the world, transported here from Iowa. It is hard to imagine the joy on the face of someone in a wheelchair able to fly high above the earth, a feat they never dared to dream about.

Also volunteering an entire day of entertainment is Diane Dupuy and her Famous People Players. They will be putting on three shows throughout the day.

Along with 75 different artists who will be entertaining at WindReach that day, will also be delicious food, a great chance to see a working farm, as well as a visit with one of dozen’s of dignitaries, including Lieutenant Governor, The Honourable David C. Onley.

So remember June 13, pack the family into the car and drive to WindReach Farm, located at 312 Townline Road, just east of Lakeridge Road.

Jonathan van Bilsen
Focus on Scugog