Batemans Bay: Dr Charles Lavender appeals to have licence suspension revoked

A south coast doctor who reached speeds of 155km/h – a staggering 65km/h above the speed limit – on the Kings Hwy has explained his actions as “stupidity”.

Shoalhaven doctor, Charles Lavender leaving Batemans Bay Local Court.

A south coast doctor caught going a staggering 65km/h over the speed limit has fronted court in a bid to appeal the immediate suspension of his driver’s licence.

Charles Lavender, 54, of Broulee, faced Batemans Bay Local Court on Monday where he appealed the immediate decision from NSW Police to suspend his licence after he was pulled over for speeding.

The court heard how Lavender drove 155km/h in a 90km/h zone on the Kings Hwy, in an overtaking lane.

Magistrate Michael O’Brien asked why the Shoalhaven doctor felt a need to travel at such a speed.

Lavender, who represented himself in court, said it was nothing more than “pure stupidity”.

“There was no thinking behind it, I was just travelling at that speed out of stupidity,” he said.

“Thank you for your candid and frank assessment,” Mr O’Brien replied.

Shoalhaven doctor, Charles Lavender, faced Batemans Bay Local Court on Monday.

Documents tendered to the court reveal the incident was earlier this year, however no specific date was noted.

Lavender informed the court he was appealing the decision to suspend his licence, as he regularly travels 137km from Broulee to his medical practice in Nowra for work.

“My wife, who is also a doctor, is currently driving me to work and I am taking the bus where I can,” he said.

Mr O’Brien said before any decision could be made, it would be in Lavender’s best interest to complete the safe drivers course.

However, prosecutor Rose said the large speed meant a decision could only be made if “exceptional circumstances” were met.

“This is a very fast speed, so he is going to need exceptional circumstances for this appeal to be considered,” she said. “I have very little information on this matter, so we will need more before any decision can be made.”

Mr O’Brien agreed, noting it would be difficult to determine any appeal with the lack of information on the speeding offence.

Lavender’s matter was adjourned to Batemans Bay Local Court on June 26 to allow the court to acquire more information on the offence.

In the meantime, Mr O’Brien suggested Lavender apply to complete the safe driver’s course.

“Given the speed, this course can do nothing but help you,” he said.