Nathan Bernhard’s drive occasioning death trial to begin in Nowra District Court

A driver accused of killing two mates while allegedly driving drunk after a State of Origin match will face trial this week.

Nathan Bernhard leaving Nowra Police Station hidden under a checkered blanket after being granted bail, his brother pictured in a black hoodie walking him out. Picture: Tom McGann.

A driver accused of killing two mates while allegedly driving drunk after a State of Origin match will face trial this week.

Nathan Bernhard, 27, has pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving occasioning death, and mid-range drink driving, after allegedly killing friends Bobby Kelsall, 36, and Stephen Lippis, 41, on May 31, 2023.

Nowra Local Court previously heard the trio met at a Bomaderry home to drink and watch the State of Origin.

Bernhard’s case returned to Nowra District Court on Monday before Judge Christopher O’Brien, where the court heard he allegedly ran over his friends when leaving the property.

The prosecution will allege Mr Kelsall and Mr Lippis laid down on the road to jokingly stop Bernhard – who was allegedly intoxicated – but, he failed to see them and fatally ran over them.

Bobby Kelsall (left) and Stephen Lippis (right) were allegedly killed by Nathan Bernhard. Pictures: Facebook

During a trail readiness proceeding on Monday, Crown prosecutor David Coulton said the prosecution case would include evidence of a police interview with Bernhard.

Mr Coulton said the Crown would also rely on CCTV footage and witness evidence.

Bernhard’s jury trial will begin in Nowra District Court this week.

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