Karen Malcolm: Baringa grandmother, Sunbus driver mourned after crash death

A Sunshine Coast grandmother and bus driver known affectionately by friends as ‘Special K’ is being mourned following her tragic death in a multi-vehicle collision.

A Baringa grandmother and Sunbus worker known to her mates as “Special K” has been remembered for the love she had for her family after she died in a fatal car crash.

Karen Malcolm, 63, was understood to be on her way home from work when she was involved in a three-car crash along Bells Creek Arterial Rd in Corbould Park about 9pm on August 9, 2022.

Early investigation by police indicated a Toyota LandCruiser travelling northbound collided with Ms Malcolm’s Toyota Kluger travelling south, being driven by the 63-year-old.

She tragically died from her injuries at the scene.

In the days since her death, those close to the Baringa woman have remembered her as a beloved grandmother to her grandson Jason and a cherished friend.

Jason’s mother Shinai Becei said she would remember Ms Malcolm as a “wonderful lady and nana” to her son and would miss their talks together.

“I’m glad I had her in my life,” she said.

It’s understood Ms Malcolm had worked at Sunbus as a bus driver for many years, accumulating lasting friendships along the way.

Workmate Guy Allenson said he remembers many stories of his friend he nicknamed “Special K” but cherished one in particular.

“I would catch up with Karen in the drivers room and always have a chat, she loved those and I would ask about her grandson,” Mr Allenson said.

“With that, the camera would come out and [she would] show me not one but hundreds [of photos].

“Week after week I would do this, why?

“So I could watch her face light up and nothing could come close to that loving smile.

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“And that's one reason why, Special K I will miss you.”

Another work friend Rachel Scott said her family sent their condolences to Ms Malcolm’s relatives.

“Such a kind, respectful and intelligent woman, taken too soon,” she said.

A 17-year-old Nirimba male, the driver and sole occupant of the LandCruiser, was transported to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a serious condition following the crash.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash and has appealed for anyone with information or relevant dashcam footage to contact police.