Driver drunk when partner killed in crash, court told

The ute Stanley was driving left the narrow and winding Lake Canobolas Road, near Orange in central-western NSW, and crashed into a tree, killing the 42-year-old mother-of-two.

Stanley, who was seriously injured and had to be cut from the vehicle, was charged with five offences, including negligent driving occasioning death and breaching an apprehended domestic violence order.

Police recently laid two new charges of dangerous driving occasioning death and driving with a high blood alcohol level, Orange Local Court was told on Thursday.

Stanley allegedly had a level of at least 0.15 and it was the second time he had been charged with that offence, according to court documents.

But he did not appear in court and there were difficulties finding a Bislama translator, according to his Legal Aid solicitor Ken Lambeth.

"I tried several times to speak to my client in custody ... for various reasons it didn't work out," Mr Lambeth said.

"I'm sorry I'm not able to get instructions today."

Magistrate Gary Wilson ordered a brief of evidence be served by May 15.

Bouquets of flowers, a panda statue and a dream catcher charm have been left at the crash site to honour Ms Hammond.

Soon after the crash, Ms Hammond's employers in Orange described her as an "amazing" team member.

"We are all grieving from this huge loss," the post by Snowgums Property Services said.

"RIP Justine. We love you and miss you. Now and forever."

Locals had long been worried about the safety of the road, which passes a busy recreational lake and several wineries.

Transport for NSW lowered the speed limit from 80km/h to 70km/h in late February after assessing the crash history, road usage and surrounding environment.

The change was a response to concerns raised by residents in 2024.

Stanley remains in custody and his case will be mentioned again in eight weeks.

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