A former Royal Australian Navy captain, Marcia Chalmers, has died after allegedly being assaulted by a gardener at her home in Glebe, Sydney. The 86-year-old was attacked on October 31 following a dispute over payment.
Police allege the 53-year-old gardener struck Chalmers in the face before leaving her Derwent Street property. She was taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital with a bleed on the brain and died on November 6.
The man was arrested on November 2 and initially charged with reckless grievous bodily harm and stalk/intimidate. After Chalmers' death, a manslaughter charge was added on November 12. He faced court on Tuesday and is due to appear again on January 20.
The Royal Australian Navy paid tribute to Chalmers, noting her 31-year career, including her role as Director of the Women's Royal Australian Naval Service. She was remembered for her advocacy for equal opportunities, which helped pave the way for women to serve at sea in 1985.
