German Backpacker Rescued After 11 Days Lost in Australian Bush

In a remarkable survival story, Carolina Wilga, a 26-year-old German backpacker, was rescued after spending 11 nights lost in the rugged bushland of Western Australia. Wilga had gone missing following a car crash on June 29, 2025, when she lost control of her Mitsubishi van on a slope, rendering her disoriented and confused. The incident occurred near the town of Beacon, situated approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Perth.

After her vehicle was found abandoned, a dedicated search effort commenced, involving local authorities and community volunteers. According to a statement from the Western Australia Police, Wilga was discovered on July 10, 2025, by a passerby, Tania Henley, who noticed her waving for help along a seldom-used bush track. "She looked very fragile and was covered in insect bites," Henley recounted to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). "I just can't believe that she survived out there."

Wilga expressed her profound gratitude to the search teams and the community that rallied to support her during her ordeal. "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," she stated through the Western Australia Police. She was eventually airlifted to a hospital in Perth, where she was treated for dehydration, exhaustion, and multiple insect bites, alongside a foot injury.

During her time in the bush, Wilga managed to survive by consuming the minimal food supplies she had and drinking rainwater and water from puddles. The harsh conditions took a toll on her health, with police reporting that she suffered from significant sunburn and fatigue by the time of her rescue. Wilga’s survival has drawn attention to the potential dangers of traveling in remote areas, particularly for those unfamiliar with the rugged Australian landscape.

Experts emphasize the importance of preparation and knowledge of wilderness survival techniques when traveling in isolated regions. According to Dr. Mark Robinson, a survival expert at the University of Western Australia, “Survival in the bush requires awareness of one’s surroundings, basic survival skills, and a solid plan. Individuals should always inform someone of their whereabouts and expected return.”

Wilga's experience has sparked discussions about safety protocols for travelers in Australia’s vast wilderness areas. Many advocates are calling for increased safety measures, including better signage and information at entry points to remote areas, as well as community-based initiatives to educate travelers on the risks associated with isolation.

As rescue teams continue to monitor the conditions of the bush and improve strategies for search and rescue operations, Wilga's story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, alongside the importance of community support in times of crisis. The Australian wilderness, while beautiful, can be unforgiving, and this incident underscores the necessity of being prepared for unexpected circumstances.

Moving forward, local authorities are urging travelers to take precautions, including carrying adequate supplies, having a reliable communication device, and ensuring that someone is aware of their travel plans. The survival of Carolina Wilga is a testament to both her will to live and the collective effort of those who sought to bring her home safely.