After enduring 11 nights alone in the outback, Caroline Wilga was rescued and is recovering in a Perth hospital. Surviving by drinking puddle water and finding shelter in a cave, she thanked those who searched for her, highlighting the support of the community during her ordeal.
German Backpacker Survives 11 Days in Western Australia’s Outback
German Backpacker Survives 11 Days in Western Australia’s Outback
Caroline Wilga, a 26-year-old German backpacker, expresses profound gratitude after being rescued following nearly two weeks lost in the bushland of Western Australia.
Caroline Wilga, a 26-year-old German backpacker, has expressed her heartfelt gratitude following her dramatic rescue after nearly two weeks lost in the harsh conditions of the Western Australian outback. Wilga was found on Friday after surviving 11 nights alone, an ordeal she described as both terrifying and transformative.
The backpacker's harrowing journey began when she lost control of her van, resulting in an accident that left her disoriented and confused. In a statement to Western Australia Police shared on social media, Wilga recounted the moment she decided to leave her vehicle despite having provisions, stating, "I hit my head significantly and left my car in a state of confusion."
During her time in the bush, she managed to survive by drinking from puddles and finding temporary shelter in a cave, showcasing her resilience amid dire circumstances. Her rescue came when a motorist, Tania Henley, spotted her waving for help on a remote track, more than 30 kilometers from her abandoned vehicle. Witnesses described Wilga as being in a fragile state, suffering from dehydration and exhaustion.
Grateful for her survival, Wilga emphasized the kindness and support she received from the community, stating, "I want to express a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart." The Western Australian outback taught her valuable lessons about community, humanity, and resilience, reinforcing the significance of solidarity among people.
Wilga's rescue was marked as a stroke of luck by local authorities, with police expressing joy over her safe return. As she recovers at a Perth hospital, her experience has not gone unnoticed, leaving an indelible mark on both her and those who rallied for her during her ordeal.
