Amanda Leonora Elmes in Maroochydore court for crash that killed Kerry Bowe

The family of a granddad in his “golden years” who was killed in a “cruel” tragedy involving a drink driver has told a court of the traumas that still haunt them.

A Maroochydore courtroom was full of family members as the woman responsible for a crash near Maleny that killed a much-loved Kenilworth grandfather was partially sentenced.

A courtroom was filled with family members as a woman was partially sentenced for a crash near Maleny that killed a much-loved Kenilworth grandfather.

Amanda Leonora Elmes, 52, pleaded guilty to dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death while drunk and drink driving in Maroochydore District Court on November 11, 2022.

The court was told Elmes was five times the limit with a breath alcohol concentration of 0.276 when she drove dangerously for 5km at Balmoral Ridge on May 27, 2021.

Crown prosecutor Samantha O’Rourke said Elmes was driving on the wrong side of the road and driving at erratic speeds causing others to take evasive action.

“Her dangerous actions culminated in her moving in to the slip lane to turn left onto Maleny Montville Rd but failing to take the bend,” Ms O’Rourke said.

Amanda Leonora Elmes outside Maroochydore courthouse.

Elmes drove at speed over the concrete island and into the side of a stationary car belonging to 71-year-old Kerry Bowe.

Other drivers had followed the 52-year-old due to the manner of her driving and ran to assist.

Mr Bowe’s injuries were extensive and although he was flown to hospital and treated, he eventually succumbed to his “traumatic” injuries on May 31, 2021.

Ms O’Rourke said when interviewed by police, Elmes told them she was a safe driver and that Mr Bowe “just slammed into” her car.

The impact statements of Mr Bowe’s loved ones were read aloud in court.

Mary Bowe said her husband, who was a devoted grandfather and friend, had a lot to live for and look forward to.

“My life changed the instant I received a call from the hospital, it literally tipped upside down,” Mrs Bowe said.

“When Kerry went out that day none of us realised he would never come home … his last days in the hospital were brutally confronting and terribly traumatic.”

Kerry Bowe was tragically killed in a crash near Maleny in 2021.

Adam Bowe detailed in his victim impact statement how his father’s death was something the family would never recover from.

“Dad was just entering his golden years, a time in his life where he was deepening his relationship with loved ones,” Mr Bowe said.

“Instead of grand children sitting on his knee as he passed on his wisdom with that playful twinkle in his eye, they’re sitting on my knee as I try to explain this tragedy.”

Mr Bowe said his father was a careful driver and knew he would’ve been looking right patiently waiting for a break in the traffic.

“I fear his final moments were a confused terror as a drunk driver bore down on him, knowing there was no time to do anything at all to avoid the collision,” he said.

“That thought haunts me and the emotional trauma and psychological scars of dad’s death will linger long after the court proceedings have concluded.”

Kenilworth man Kerry Bowe died after a crash near Maleny in 2021. Picture: Marilyn Beale.

Anita Bowe said medical professionals told the family Mr Bowe’s brain injury was the worst they had ever seen.

“Dad’s death was completely avoidable, it was so cruel and incredibly traumatic,” Ms Bowe said.

Defence barrister Mark Dixon said his client was deeply remorseful and was in a highly emotional state at the time of the crash.

Mr Dixon said Elmes’ marriage had broken down and her wedding business of 16 years was going to be sold.

“She became aware (her husband) had been having an affair … we don’t suggest that any of this in any way excuses what has occurred,” Mr Dixon said.

“She moved to Australia at the age of 12 … her biological father was a violent alcoholic.”

He said Elmes had engaged in rehabilitation, pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and had written a letter of apology.

Judge Gary Long needed more time to consider the sentence so it was adjourned to Monday, November 14.