German Backpacker found After 11 nights Lost in WA Bushland; Credits Community Support for Survival
A german backpacker, Carolina Wilga, has been found and is recovering in a Perth hospital after spending 11 nights lost in the Western Australian bushland. Wilga suffered cuts, bruises, dehydration, and fatigue during her ordeal, which included overnight temperatures dropping to near freezing.
In a statement released by WA Police, Wilga explained that she left her Mitsubishi van, which was found approximately 35km from a main track within the dense Karroun Hill Nature Reserve bushland.she stated that she lost control of the vehicle and rolled down a slope, sustaining a notable head injury in the crash. This led to her leaving the car in a confused state and becoming lost.
Wilga expressed profound gratitude to her rescuers, notably a woman named Tania, whom she described as a “rescuer and angel.” She credited the “unbelievable outpouring of support” and the belief of others for giving her the strength to persevere during her ordeal. “Western Australia has taught me what it really means to be part of a true community,” she remarked.
Authorities had previously reported that Wilga spent only one night with her bogged vehicle before deciding to walk 24km west, following the sun in an attempt to find a road. She survived with minimal food and water for the 11 days she was missing.
