Lost German Backpacker Rescued After 11 Days in the Outback

Caroline Wilga was rescued after enduring 11 nights lost in the bush, drinking rainwater and finding shelter, and she now feels embraced by the local community.

A German backpacker who spent nearly two weeks lost in the treacherous Western Australian outback has expressed her overwhelming gratitude after being found alive. Caroline Wilga, 26, was rescued on Friday after bravely surviving 11 nights alone in the bushland. She relied on rainwater from puddles and sought refuge in a cave during her ordeal.

In her first public statement since her rescue, Wilga recounted the harrowing moment when she hit her head after losing control of her van, leaving her disoriented. Fortunately, she was spotted by a passing motorist, Tania Henley, who helped airlift her to a hospital in Perth, where she is recovering.

Feeling eternally thankful, Wilga released a statement via Western Australia Police on Instagram, appreciating the medical staff, her country's consulate, and the countless individuals involved in the search efforts. "I want to express a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart," her message read, emphasizing the depth of her gratitude.

She further explained the confusion surrounding her decision to leave the vehicle, stating, "Some people might wonder why I even left my car... As a result of the accident, I left my car in a state of confusion and got lost." After the incident resulted in her van rolling down a slope, Wilga found herself unprepared and lost.

Reflecting on her experience, she shared how the kindness and solidarity shown by those around her had a profound impact on her. "Western Australia has taught me what it truly means to be part of a community," she stated.

Henley, the woman who discovered her walking barefoot along a seldom-used track, described Wilga's state as fragile, stating she suffered from exhaustion, dehydration, and injuries sustained during her ordeal. Despite her injuries, Wilga demonstrated incredible resilience throughout her challenging experience.

Previously, she was last sighted on June 29th at a general store in Beacon, Western Australia, where she was driving her van. Wilga emphasized that she survived thanks to an "incredible outpouring of support,” where the hopes and belief of a community contributed to her strength during the most challenging moments.

The rescue operation was noted as a stroke of luck by acting police inspector Jessica Securo during a press conference.