German Backpacker Rescued After 11 Days Lost in the Australian Outback**

After nearly two weeks lost in the outback, Caroline Wilga thanks the community and rescuers for their support, marking her survival as a testament to hope and resilience.**

A 26-year-old German backpacker, Caroline Wilga, has shared her heartfelt gratitude after being rescued following a harrowing 11-day ordeal lost in the remote areas of Western Australia. Ms. Wilga, who experienced the challenges of survival in extreme conditions, expressed her appreciation for the collective effort that led to her discovery.

After losing control of her van and enduring a significant head injury, Ms. Wilga exited her vehicle in confusion, leaving her stranded without her belongings. While lost, she sustained herself by drinking rainwater collected in puddles and finding temporary shelter in a cave.

Her rescue occurred on Friday when a motorist identified her, over 30 kilometers from where she had abandoned her van. Tania Henley, who found Ms. Wilga, described her as fragile and suffering from various ailments, including dehydration and insect bites. The police had previously uncovered her abandoned van in a dense bush area, intensifying the urgency of the search efforts.

In an emotional statement, Ms. Wilga thanked the medical personnel, the German consulate, and countless individuals who participated in the search. She expressed how the experience transformed her understanding of community and solidarity, saying, "I feel a part of it... that's what counts most."

The outcome was deemed a miracle by WA Police, underscoring the significance of support and hope during her darkest moments. Ms. Wilga's survival story resonates as a powerful reminder of resilience amid nature's challenges and the strength of human compassion in times of crisis.