Dec 4, 2016

The 2016 Boating BC Conference, presented by Mercury Marine, was held on November 22 and 23 to great success. This annual conference is an opportunity for professionals in the recreational boating industry across BC to come together and connect while hearing the latest industry trends and enhancing their personal and professional development. With over 200 delegates in attendance, this year’s event was the best yet with 100% saying the experience was good to excellent!

“We were extremely pleased with this year’s conference,” said Don Prittie, President, Boating BC Association. “We had an excellent turn out and tremendous support from sponsors. You can feel the momentum building year after year with this event and I really believe we’re strengthening our community and the recreational marine industry in BC.”

Conference presenters included Thom Dammrich, President, NMMA, Tim Nixon, Managing Director, Wells Fargo and Iain Black, President & CEO, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. By all accounts, the industry in BC is strong and continues to outpace the rest of Canada.

Rick Hansen provided a special video presentation and challenged the industry to become more accessible to ensure people with disabilities and our aging population can continue to get on the water. The Rick Hansen Foundation is currently accepting applications for grants to make water boating more accessible.

Rick Cassels, from Mustang Survival was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his many years of service to the industry. Mr. Cassels will be retiring this month after 26 years with Mustang Survival. He was acknowledged for his extraordinary volunteer contribution to the industry including eight years on the Boating BC (then BCMTA) Board of Directors, and 17 years with both the Canadian Safe Boating Council and Boat for Hope.

The NAVIS Marine Insurance Industry Reception proved another great success and was enjoyed by delegates as an opportunity to relax and connect with peers and colleagues. Fundraising efforts through the annual silent auction and 50/50 draw raised $7,800, for the Marine Careers fund, which is currently directed to the Glenn Spartz Scholarship in support of Marine Mechanical Technician apprenticeship training.

Boating BC Association is the voice of recreational boating in BC and is comprised of over 300 member companies that represent all aspects of the boating industry. As owners of the Vancouver International Boat Show, the Association strives to ensure the industry continues to prosper – working closely with all levels of government, cultivating marine career opportunities and promoting safe, responsible boating.

For further information contact:

Lisa Geddes

Executive Director

604.248.8906