Carolina Wilga, a 24-year-old German backpacker who was lost over 12 terrifying nights in the Western Australian outback. Fortunately, she was located safe and unharmed. Her nightmare started when police discovered her van left behind in the Karroun Hill Nature Reserve. This very remote location is located approximately 90 miles (150 km) from Beacon. Wilga had always intended to see more of Western Australia before taking the turn north. Her trip became life-threatening when she lost her way.
Like many of the tortoises rescued that day, Wilga was found by Tania, a local farmer. She was literally waving down cars on the side of the road, waving down aid. To even further complicate matters, she was found 24 miles away from her car. After surviving 11 nights with little food or water, Wilga was in an extremely emaciated state when found. Rescue teams said she was “exhausted, dehydrated and hungry.” 8.
Wilga’s story of finding herself in the wilderness started when her car got stuck. She camped out with her vehicle for a full day before worrying enough about her health to attempt to find assistance. Trusting her gut, she navigated westward by using the sun’s position as a compass. While lost in the wilderness, she took refuge in a cave, sheltering her from the unforgiving elements.
Yet, the conditions on the outback were the most difficult I’ve ever encountered in my life. Wilga fought against the specter of dehydration. She became afflicted with minor injuries such as cuts and bruises, all while being mercilessly eaten alive by mosquitoes. Even with these extreme hardships, her will to live was apparent.
Local farmer Tania, who had discovered Wilga after she escaped, said, given her condition, it was a miracle she survived at all.
“Miracle is a word that gets bandied about a lot, but to survive 12 days and cross-country – she went cross country to come to my road,” – Tania
Wilga was airlifted to Fiona Stanley Hospital in Perth after she was rescued. After her ordeal, health officials said she had suffered a significant amount of trauma.
Martin Glynn, a spokesperson for the rescue team, stated that her life-threatening condition shouldn’t be understated.
“As you can imagine, from the trauma she suffered for the last few days, she’s been obviously through a great deal,” – Martin Glynn
Western Australia’s Premier, Roger Cook, said all were relieved at Wilga’s safe return.
“She does have some injuries. She’s been ravaged by mosquitoes. She’s obviously been through an amazing journey, a trauma, no doubt – a testimony to demonstrating her bravery in those circumstances,” – Martin Glynn
Though traumatized by her tragic experience, Carolina Wilga We are excited Carolina is feeling hopeful about her future travels. She’s made noises about wanting to see a bit more of Australia, the east coast still remaining on her bucket list.
“This news is nothing short of remarkable,” – Roger Cook
He acknowledged the dangers present in the outback.
“There’s a very hostile environment out there, both from flora and fauna,” – Martin Glynn
Despite her traumatic experience, Carolina Wilga remains optimistic about her future travel plans. She has expressed intentions to explore more of Australia, with the east coast still on her bucket list.