NMRA Presents 2025 Mel Barr & Old Pro Awards At IBEX

October 21, 2025

Two marine industry veterans were recognized at IBEX 2025 in Tampa last week by the National Marine Representatives Association (NMRA) as the recipients of the 2025 NMRA Mel Barr and Old Pro awards.
 
The Mel Barr Award was created in memory of Mel Barr, an independent marine rep deeply involved in our industry, one of the founders of the NMRA and its first president. On his untimely death in 1967, his family, along with the NMRA, established the award to honor individuals who have contributed to the improvement of the marine industry. It’s voted on by NMRA member rep groups.
 
The 2025 NMRA Mel Barr Award recipient is Steve Tilders, Xylem Marine Sales Director of the Americas.
The NMRA Old Pro Award recognizes an NMRA member who actively contributes to the association and the marine rep profession as a whole.

The 2025 NMRA Old Pro Award recipient is Charlie Haimes of the Haimes Coleman Group.

NMRA is the leading professional membership organization for independent marine sales representatives. For more information, visit https://nmraonline.org.

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