Kill accused out on bail

A CLAREMONT man has pleaded not guilty to the manslaughter of a University of Tasmania academic.

Stewart Williams, 54, died in hospital several days after he was punched outside Mobius nightclub in Hobart in February. Beau Wayne Kelly yesterday pleaded not guilty in the Hobart Magistrates Court to manslaughter. Magistrate Sam Mollard bailed Mr Kelly to appear in the Supreme Court in Hobart in September.

Mr Kelly was initially charged with assault, but police upgraded the charge to manslaughter following Dr Williams’ death.

It is alleged Mr Kelly punched Dr Williams to the head outside Mobius Lounge Bar on February 24. Dr Williams was treated at the Royal Hobart Hospital. His condition deteriorated and he was transferred to the intensive care unit and died on March 2.

Dr Williams was a senior lecturer at the University of Tasmania’s School of Land and Food in the College of Sciences and Engineering.

He had worked at the university for more than a decade.

Dr Williams was remembered by his friends and colleagues as a distinguished and highly regarded scholar.

In a letter to staff, College of Sciences and Engineering executive dean Professor Brian Yates said Dr Williams was highly regarded.

“Stewart was a highly regarded academic and teacher, an alumni of the university having completed his undergraduate studies, Honours and PhD here, and actively involved in the governance of our institution through his elected position on Academic Senate, as well as serving in a number of national Geographical and Planning Institute roles,” Prof Yates said.

“It is so very sad that his life and potential have been cut short and we are all deeply saddened by his passing.”