A 26-year-old German backpacker, Caroline Wilga, has shared her feelings of overwhelming gratitude after being rescued following nearly two weeks lost in the unforgiving outback of Western Australia. Official reports indicate that Ms. Wilga spent a staggering 11 nights in the wilderness, surviving against the odds by drinking from puddles and seeking shelter in a cave.
In her first statement after her dramatic rescue, Caroline expressed how grateful she was to be alive. She explained that a car accident led to her confusion and disorientation, which caused her to leave her vehicle despite having supplies inside. It was only through the help of a passerby that she was finally spotted and airlifted to a Perth hospital, where she is now recuperating.
In a heartfelt message shared with Western Australia Police, Ms. Wilga expressed her appreciation for the medical teams and the German consulate, as well as to the community members who tirelessly searched for her. "I am deeply impressed by the courage, helpfulness, and warmth that has been shown to me here," she stated, emphasizing the sense of connection she now feels toward Australian culture.
Caroline recounted the moment she was found while walking barefoot along a rarely used track, more than 30 kilometers from her abandoned van, which had been located prior to her discovery. Tania Henley, the motorist who rescued her, called the experience surreal, noting how frail Caroline appeared, suffering from exhaustion, dehydration, insect bites, and an injured foot.
The local authorities also noted the randomness of the rescue and credited the successful outcome to sheer luck, reflecting the collective efforts that contributed to finding Caroline. "I survived only thanks to this incredible outpouring of support," she stated, acknowledging the mental strength provided by the search efforts of many.
