Kurtis Ray Ward, 26, charged with dangerous driving causing death

The case against an alleged drunk driver, charged over a crash that claimed the life of a retired chiropractor, has returned to court.

A man charged with multiple offences after an alleged fatal hit and run has had his charges mentioned in court.

Kurtis Ray Ward, 26, was charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death while adversely affected by an intoxicating substance, failing to remain at the scene with callous disregard, and driving unlicensed in the wake of the crash that claimed the life of retired chiropractor Gordon Brinsmead, 84.

Mr Brinsmead was riding his mobility scooter at the time of the crash.

The crash happened on Ariadne St in River Heads on October 8, 2021.

The charges were mentioned in Thursday in Hervey Bay Magistrates Court and the case was adjourned until April 14 for further mention.

Mr Brinsmead’s friend and longtime secretary Colleen Szabo paid tribute to him in the aftermath of his death.

Gordon Brinsmead, 84, died when his mobility scooter was struck by a car in River Heads.

Mr Brinsmead had moved from Sydney to River Heads five months before he was killed, joining Ms Szabo and her husband George in the seaside village.

He had studied overseas and although he was known for his chiropractic work, he was also a gifted piano player and artist.