Lost Backpacker Found Alive After 12 Days in Outback!

Quick Smiles:

• A German backpacker, missing for 12 days in the Australian outback, has been found alive.
• Carolina Wilga’s story highlights both the dangers of the wilderness and the resilience of the human spirit.
• Her survival was aided by her determination and the efforts of many who searched for her.

A remarkable tale of endurance has emerged from the Australian outback, where 26-year-old German backpacker Carolina Wilga was found after being lost for nearly two weeks. Her ordeal captured national attention after she vanished in late June, and her vehicle was found stranded in a remote nature reserve in Western Australia.

Wilga was discovered walking along a track on the edge of the reserve, showing signs of mosquito bites and the harsh conditions she endured.

A police inspector from Western Australia reported that she was found last Friday evening by a passerby who brought her to the town of Beacon. From there, she was airlifted to a hospital in Perth.

In a heartfelt statement from her hospital room, surrounded by well-wishes, Wilga expressed her gratitude:
“The thought of all the people who believed in me, searched for me, and kept hoping for me gave me the strength to carry on during my darkest moments. For this, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

She extended her thanks to the police, search teams, the German Consulate, medical staff, and particularly to Tania Henley, her rescuer, whom she called her “angel.”

Her survival story began when her van became stuck in mud, leading her to leave it and become disoriented. Barefoot and with limited supplies, she survived by drinking from puddles and consuming any remaining food she had.

“There’s a very hostile environment out there, both from flora and fauna. It’s a really, really challenging environment,” the inspector explained.

Wilga roamed the Karroun Hill Nature Reserve, often seeking refuge in caves as temperatures dropped to freezing at night.

“You’re always so hopeful with these missing person situations,” the inspector said. “It’s just a great outcome for everyone involved.”

Many questioned why she left her vehicle, a common mistake among those lost in the wild. Wilga explained that after hitting her head, she was confused and lost sight of her van.

Survival experts stress the importance of staying with a vehicle in such situations, as it provides shelter and is easier for rescuers to spot.

Wilga’s experience serves as a reminder of how quickly one can become lost in remote areas. It’s crucial to mark your path if venturing away from a trail or vehicle.

Above all, her story is a testament to the power of hope and the dedication of those who refuse to give up on the lost.

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