German Backpacker Rescued After 11 Days Lost in Australian Outback

Caroline Wilga, a 26-year-old German backpacker, survived 11 days lost in the Australian outback by drinking water from puddles and seeking shelter in a cave. After an accident caused her to lose her way, she was discovered by a passing motorist and has since expressed immense gratitude for the support she received during her ordeal.

A German backpacker who endured nearly two weeks lost in the Australian wilderness has shared her overwhelming gratitude following her rescue. Caroline Wilga, aged 26, was found on Friday after spending 11 nights in the harsh conditions of Western Australia’s outback. She survived by drinking from puddles and taking refuge in a cave.

In her first public statement since being rescued, Ms. Wilga recounted her experience, explaining that she had exited her van in a state of confusion after losing control of the vehicle. Authorities confirmed that she was spotted by a motorist and subsequently airlifted to a hospital in Perth for recovery.

In a heartfelt message to Western Australia Police, which was shared on Instagram, Ms. Wilga expressed profound thanks to the medical teams, the German consulate, and the extensive search efforts made on her behalf. "I want to express a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart – a thank you that truly comes from the depth of my soul," she expressed.

Reflecting on her decision to leave her vehicle, she explained how a crash led to her disorientation. "As a result of the accident, I left my car in a state of confusion and got lost," Ms. Wilga noted. Despite her cultural disconnection before her ordeal, she said the experience has taught her about humanity and community spirit, stating, "Western Australia has shown me what it truly means to be part of a community."

Ms. Wilga was discovered approximately 30 kilometers from her abandoned van by motorist Tania Henley, who described the hiker as being in a "fragile state," suffering from exhaustion and injuries. Henley expressed disbelief at Ms. Wilga's survival under such tough conditions, given her lack of shoes and the injuries to her foot.

Previously, the young woman was last seen in her van at a general store in Beacon on June 29. "I am certain that I survived only thanks to this incredible outpouring of support," Ms. Wilga relayed. She conveyed that the mental support she felt from searchers kept her going through her darkest moments.

The acting police inspector Jessica Securo remarked that the successful rescue was based on "sheer luck,” highlighting the significance of every effort made to locate Ms. Wilga during her harrowing ordeal in the unforgiving outback.