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German Backpacker Rescued After 11 Nights in Western Australian Outback

Authorities say she endured freezing nights with scant supplies, prompting a detailed reconstruction of her route to strengthen safety guidance for remote travelers.

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

Overview

  • Carolina Wilga remains in stable but fragile condition at Royal Perth Hospital, treated for minor injuries, dehydration and severe mosquito bites.
  • Police report she survived 11 nights in Karroun Hill Nature Reserve on minimal food and rainwater while exposed to subzero temperatures and swarms of mosquitoes.
  • Acting Inspector Jessica Securo said panic over her mechanically stranded Mitsubishi Delica led her to walk about 24 kilometres west by following the sun.
  • Investigators are reviewing CCTV, search logs and terrain data to map her exact path and refine the timeline of her movements across the Wheatbelt.
  • Premier Roger Cook praised the rescue as remarkable and officials urged off-grid travelers to carry personal locator beacons, share itineraries and stay with their vehicles.