|

Boating Ontario Celebrates Industry Excellence & Community at 2025 President’s Dinner & Awards Gala

December 9, 2025

BLUE MOUNTAINS (December 2, 2025) – Boating Ontario celebrated the strength, leadership, and collaborative spirit of Ontario’s marine industry at the 2025 President’s Dinner & Awards Gala, held during the annual Boating Ontario Conference at Blue Mountain Resort.

More than 300 Conference delegates attended the Gala, which serves as a cornerstone event of the Conference – bringing industry leaders, partners, and colleagues together to connect, reflect on the year, and recognize individuals and organizations whose contributions continue to shape the future of boating in Ontario.

2025 Boating Ontario Award Recipients

Robert J. Eaton Environmental Award
Fifty Point Marina
Recognizing outstanding leadership and long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices within the marine sector.

Gord Blake Visionary Award
Wilson Forbes
Presented to an individual who demonstrates forward-thinking leadership and a clear vision that advances Ontario’s marine industry.

President’s Award
Brian Crate
Recognizing exceptional service, leadership, and dedication in support of Boating Ontario and the broader marine community.

W.J. Robertson Award
Dave Moffatt
Awarded in recognition of long-standing service and meaningful contributions to both the marine industry and Boating Ontario.

“The President’s Dinner & Awards Gala is an opportunity to recognize the people who quietly – and sometimes not so quietly – help move our industry forward,” said Rick Layzell, CEO of Boating Ontario. “Each of this year’s recipients has played an important role in strengthening our industry and fostering a connected, resilient marine community.”

The Gala formed part of a multi-day Conference program focused on education, networking, and industry advancement. Boating Ontario extends its congratulations to all 2025 award recipients and thanks everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this year’s Conference and Gala.

Learn More
To explore the history of Boating Ontario’s awards & initiatives, visit: www.boatingontario.ca

Media Contacts:
BOA – Rick Layzell, CEO | rlayzell@boatingontario.ca
BOA – Cass Keeling, Marketing & Communications | ckeeling@boatingontario.ca

Related Posts

Good Advice that You Can Share – Falling Overboard Recovery Steps

By John Gullick
 
An accident that occurs with surprising frequency to passengers and crew is falling. The chance of this happening can be greatly reduced if precautions are taken, such as wearing non-skid shoes that lace up and wearing appropriate clothing that does not impede movement. Those on board should make sure they have a sound footing and a good handhold at all times. Here is an old saying to remember: “Sailors were given two hands, one for the ship and one for themselves.” 

Read More

Changing Scene

Need to Catch up on News This Week?

Every Tuesday we publish a fresh Digest with informative articles pertaining to the Canadian boating and marine industry. Stay up to date with the latest products, research and industry developments.

Missed an Issue of Boating Industry Canada News Week? If you’re looking for a specific issue, or simply want to catch up on previous issues, check out our Boating Industry Canada News Week Archives.

Not signed up for News Week? Subscribe here.

Just Launched

Lund Boats Introduces New 2027 HG Pro Series, Combining Hardtop Protection with Big-Water Capability 

All-new 220 HG Pro and 240 HG Pro models deliver rugged heavy-gauge construction, enclosed hardtop comfort and serious fishing functionality for demanding open-water anglers. 

Lund Boats has unveiled the all-new Model Year 2027 HG Pro Series, a purpose-built heavy-gauge aluminum platform designed for anglers who pursue big-water fisheries in changing conditions. 

Read More

JBL Debuts the Flip 7 Magnet for Secure Portable Sound on the Water and Beyond

JBL has announced the Flip 7 Magnet, a flexible mounting solution that brings portable JBL Pro Sound to boats, golf carts, RVs, powersports, vehicles and more. The purpose-built magnetic accessory securely holds the best-selling JBL Flip 7 on compatible metal surfaces, while an included receiver plate extends placement to nonmagnetic surfaces. 

Read More

People