TWO days are expected to be set aside in Wagga Local Court to allow a Lockhart man to defend a criminal charge laid against him over the death of well-known Wagga auctioneer Joe Howard.
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Robert Richards, 50, has pleaded not guilty to operating a recreational vessel negligently causing death.
The case had been set down for a one-day hearing yesterday but the court was made aware of further information that had been compiled.
Magistrate Michael Antrum was told the prosecution had arranged two experts to assess the scene and circumstances since the hearing date was set.
The reports weren't made available until recently and one of the experts was unable to give evidence in court yesterday due to medical reasons.
The case was adjourned for mention on May 14, when a hearing date is due to be set.
Richards was represented by solicitor Mark Cronin, who indicated two days would now be required, due to the additional documents.
Magistrate Antrum said it was important the matter progressed, adding it would continue to be heard in Wagga, rather than Narrandera.
"We do need to keep it moving, it's been a while now," Magistrate Antrum said.
Mr Howard, a 34-year-old father of three and general manager of Rundles Auctions, was fatally injured while water-skiing at Colombo Creek, Morundah, on February 22 last year.
