NORTH PERTH – For the second straight year, Kadylack Farm is raising both spirits and funds for a number of worthy causes through what is becoming a very popular local attraction.
Steve Terpstra and Dianne De Jong organized their Sunflower Walk east of Newry last August, and the response from the public spoke for itself. People from throughout the region and beyond made the trek to the vast, rural sunflower field, with entry costs donated to organizations like the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). Twelve months later the Sunflower Walk is attracting approximately 300 visitors per day to the 16-acre field flush with an estimated 300,000 sunflowers.
“It’s been busy,” said De Jong on Aug. 3. “We can’t thank people enough for coming out, because they’re helping others. It’s been wonderful so far.”
“You can’t be unhappy in a sunflower field,” says Dianne De Jong. (Dan McNee photo)
During its inaugural running in 2022, the Sunflower Walk’s proceeds benefitted both the CMHA and local mother of four Heidi Schlumpf, who was battling from Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. Schlumpf would tragically pass away on Aug. 10, 2022, with Kadylack Farm closing down that day out of respect for the family.
This year, the CMHA will receive proceeds once again, as will organizations such as Wellspring, the Tanner Steffler Foundation and a host of others. Kadylack Farm also makes regular contributions to the operation of the children’s games during annual Canada Day festivities in Atwood.
Throughout the winding path making its way through the sunflower field, positive messages can be found to enhance the visitor’s experience, as well as some interesting facts about sunflowers. The full Sunflower Walk circuit can take upwards of an hour, and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Dogs are also welcome.
Throughout the winding path making its way through the sunflower field, positive messages can be found to enhance the visitor’s experience. (Dan McNee photo)
“It’s great for families and groups of friends,” said De Jong. “You can’t be unhappy in a sunflower field.”
The Sunflower Walk’s prime blooming season typically lasts only two weeks, and officially opened to the public on July 28. Admission is $10 per person or $40 per vehicle.
Kadylack Farm is located at 5572 Perth Line 72 between Newry and Donegal. More information about the Sunflower Walk can be found online by searching its Facebook page.
