Newmarket, ON – September 22, 2025 – The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority proudly hosted the unveiling of a Wind Phone at the 2nd Annual Park Prescription (PaRx) Day on Saturday, September 20 at Scanlon Creek Conservation Area. The event brought together the community to reflect, heal, and experience the wellness benefits of nature.
The day began with opening remarks from representatives of Oasis: A Centre for Bereavement and Healing, Mayor Leduc from the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, and local physician Dr. Jacob Zamora. Attendees then gathered for the heartfelt unveiling of the Wind Phone, followed by guided hikes, nature-based art and journaling activities, and interactive discovery stations highlighting the connection between nature and wellness.
Wind Phone Unveiling
The Wind Phone is a symbolic and powerful concept that originated in Japan. Featuring a disconnected rotary phone placed in a quiet natural setting, it offers a space where people can connect with loved ones they have lost. Thoughtfully integrated into the landscape at Scanlon Creek in partnership with Oasis, the Wind Phone provides a meaningful and peaceful place for reflection, remembrance, and emotional healing.
“We have strived to design the Wind Phone installation in a way that it blends in organically with the surroundings. Scanlon Creek is a perfect setting, offering a serene space for reflection, remembrance, and healing in nature,” said Lisa Snow, Director at Oasis: A Centre for Bereavement and Healing.
2nd Annual PaRx Day: Prescribing Nature for Wellness
PaRx, a national initiative led by the BC Parks Foundation, encourages healthcare professionals to improve patients’ health by prescribing them time in nature. This year’s PaRx Day at Scanlon Creek showcased the physical and mental health benefits of outdoor experiences, offering the community an opportunity to explore the beauty of the conservation area while learning how healthcare providers are prescribing nature for overall wellness.
“Spending time outdoors is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to support our health and well-being. Through PaRx Day, we’re excited to share these benefits with the community and to work alongside healthcare professionals who recognize the value of nature in everyday life,” said Nicole Hamley, Manager of education programs at the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority.
Whether it’s a quiet moment at the Wind Phone, a family hike, or simply time outdoors, Scanlon Creek Conservation area offers a welcoming space for wellness, reflection, and renewal.
For more information, visit: lsrca.on.ca/park-prescription and oasisbereavement.com.
The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority’s mission is to protect and restore the Lake Simcoe watershed with research, policies, and engagement driven action.
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Media Contact:
Sinem Connor, Senior Communications Advisor
E-Mail: s.connor@lsrca.on.ca
Mobile: 289-763-4507