Australian Backpacker Manages Remarkable Survival in Wilderness After Disappearance
In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, 26-year-old Carolina Wilga, a traveller from Germany, has survived 11 days lost in the Australian bush. Her ordeal began when her Mitsubishi van got stuck in the wet sand of the Karroun Hill nature reserve, leaving her stranded without phone reception.
Wilga, who has been touring Australia for two years, working at mine sites and staying in hostels, decided to leave her vehicle and seek help by walking. Using the sun as her guide, she trekked westward, hoping to find a road or human life. Her persistence and some luck eventually paid off when she was spotted by a local resident.
During her time in the bush, Wilga faced significant challenges. She walked barefoot across rough terrain, had very little food and water, and sustained minor injuries and was heavily bitten by mosquitoes. Despite these hardships, she was described as remarkably well considering the harsh environment and length of time she was lost.
Upon being found, Wilga was flown from a rural community in Beacon to a hospital in Perth for treatment. She received care for her physical wounds and emotional support, and despite the trauma, expressed a desire to continue travelling in Australia once recovered.
The authorities in Western Australia launched a search for Wilga on Thursday and released photos and video footage of the missing person to the public. The driver who found Wilga, Tania Henley, described her as waving her down and in a weakened state.
Wilga's family was relieved and grateful that the authorities used "all resources" to find their daughter, but currently have no plans to fly to Australia. The German woman, who loves Australia and has the east coast still on her to-do list, has shown an incredible spirit of adventure and a willingness to overcome adversity.
Orange plastic traction mats were found on the rear tires of the car, indicating it may have been stuck in difficult terrain. Wilga stayed by the car for a day before setting off to find help in a state of panic. She drank rainwater and from puddles during her survival, demonstrating her resourcefulness in the face of extreme hardship.
Wilga's survival in the harsh and isolated environment of the Australian bush is considered quite extraordinary. Her story serves as a testament to the human spirit and the power of determination, persistence, and a little bit of luck.
Wilga's adventure-travel journey amidst the Australians bush, after being lost for 11 days, showcases her unyielding desire to maintain her international lifestyle, even in the most challenging conditions. Despite the harsh environment and dwindling resources during her ordeal, she remains determined to resume her travel plans across Australia as soon as she recovers.
