German Backpacker Needs to 'Gain 12kg' After 11-Night Ordeal in the Australian Outback

Carolina Wilga, a German backpacker, is on a mission to regain 12 kilograms after surviving an 11-night ordeal in the Australian outback. Her story of survival has captured the hearts of many, highlighting the dangers of the remote wilderness and the kindness of strangers.

Wilga was found after being stranded in the West Australian outback, and she has since been recovering in Fiona Stanley Hospital in Perth. On Monday night, she shared her journey on Instagram, stating that she needed to “gain 12 kilograms back” after losing control of her car and getting lost in the bush. In the accompanying images, Wilga is seen surrounded by food in her hospital bed, which she thanked the German Consulate for providing, including fruit, baked goods, and tea.

It has been four days since her rescue, and Wilga is now in the early stages of recovery. WA Police revealed that she was flown to Perth from the Wheatbelt region for medical treatment of dehydration, sunburn, extensive insect bites, and an injured foot. Her rescue was nothing short of miraculous, with Tania Henley, a local resident, being the one who found her.

Henley, who lives on Bimbijy Station and was returning from a “quick two-hour trip” to the small town of Beacon, was on Mouroubra Road when she spotted Wilga. WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch described the incident as “pure luck,” emphasizing that Henley’s presence at the right time was a miracle. “She’s just an incredible person… everything lined up at the right time… an amazing tale,” Blanch said.

Blanch also highlighted the importance of the weather and Wilga’s survival skills, which helped her navigate the bush for 11 days. “It was a miracle that Tanya turned up when she did,” he added. He noted that the entire search and rescue team was elated to recover Wilga alive and that the community of Beacon and surrounding towns played a vital role in the search efforts.

Henley, whom Wilga called her “guardian angel,” shared her emotional experience of finding Wilga. “She was thin, fragile—and everybody would be fragile. Twelve days to be missing out in the bush is usually not a good result, really. I pulled over and got out and gave her a hug—she was crying, it was pretty emotional all right,” Henley said.

Wilga also released a statement, explaining that she lost control of her car and rolled down a slope, hitting her head significantly. As a result, she left her vehicle and became lost. “I’m so grateful for the kindness of strangers and the support from the community,” she said.

Her story has sparked a wave of admiration and support, with many praising the bravery of both Wilga and the people who helped her. The incident also serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the outback and the importance of preparedness when venturing into remote areas.

As Wilga continues her recovery, she remains focused on regaining her strength and returning to normal life. Her experience has become a powerful testament to resilience, community, and the unexpected kindness that can be found in the most challenging of circumstances.