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German Backpacker Recovering in Perth Hospital as Authorities Urge Outback Safety Measures

Her 11-night rescue in Karroun Hill highlights critical gaps in traveller preparation, from lacking emergency beacons to missing satellite communication

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Australian outback Woodlands dirt road, Gascoyne, Western Australia - Jul 28, 2017.

Overview

  • Carolina Wilga remains in a stable but fragile condition at Fiona Stanley Hospital with dehydration, minor injuries and severe mosquito bites
  • Authorities are piecing together her exact route after finding her abandoned Mitsubishi van deep in Karroun Hill Nature Reserve on July 10
  • The 26-year-old survived 11 nights on foot, walking about 24 km west by drinking rainwater and sheltering in natural caves during freezing nights
  • She flagged down a passing motorist on Mouroubra Road on July 11 and was airlifted from Beacon town to Perth for medical treatment
  • Premier Roger Cook and WA Police are warning travellers to carry emergency locator beacons, satellite phones and to remain with vehicles in remote areas