### German Backpacker Triumphs After 11 Days Lost in West Australia's Wilderness

**Carolina Wilga was located after nearly two weeks of being lost, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in dire circumstances.**

In a remarkable story of survival, Carolina Wilga, a 26-year-old backpacker from Germany, was found after spending 11 harrowing nights lost in the remote outback of Western Australia. Rescued on Friday, Wilga managed to sustain herself by drinking rainwater and puddle water, while also enduring exhaustion, dehydration, extensive insect bites, and a foot injury.

According to police officials, her troubles began after her van became stuck in a secluded area, forcing her to walk approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) in a "confused and disorientated" state. In a statement, Western Australia police emphasized the mental challenges she faced, as Wilga believed she might never be found.

The breakthrough in her rescue came from sheer luck, as a passing driver named Tania Henley spotted Wilga signaling for help along the roadway. Henley, who shared her account with Australia’s public broadcaster ABC, described Wilga’s condition as fragile, noting her lack of shoes and her foot wrapped for support.

Prior to her rescue, Wilga had last been seen at a general store in the town of Beacon on June 29. Police located her stranded van just a day before her discovery, hidden in thick bushland. It appeared that Wilga had lost control of her vehicle, which became immobilized due to mechanical issues.

Thankfully, Wilga was airlifted to a hospital in Perth, where she has since enjoyed a restful night and is now taking each day as it comes, according to police inspector Jessica Securo. The joyful relief of her family echoes through the community, celebrating her return from a seemingly impossible situation.