A 26-year-old German backpacker, Carolina Wilga, survived an extraordinary 12 days lost in the harsh environment of the Western Australian outback. Her ordeal began when her van became bogged in remote bushland approximately 35 kilometers from the nearest road. A massive search operation was launched, involving both land and air efforts, but it was a member of the public who ultimately found her on July 14, 2025.
Survival expert Jake Cassar, who has extensive experience in the Australian bush, explained the challenges faced by anyone lost in such unforgiving terrain. He noted that while many fear local wildlife like dingoes, the real hazards often come from smaller creatures and environmental factors. “Mosquitoes are more dangerous than dingoes,” Cassar stated, emphasizing that these insects can lead to significant stress and dehydration.
Cassar provided insights into the survival tactics that likely aided Wilga during her time alone in the bush. He highlighted that hypothermia was a major concern, particularly if she had been caught in rain. “If she had been wet and caught in a shower, she may not have survived the night,” he explained. Dehydration emerged as another critical issue, with Cassar recommending that individuals should prioritize finding water over food, as the body can only last about three days without hydration.
Wilga was last seen on CCTV footage after filling up her vehicle at a service station in Toodyay. Her van was later discovered abandoned in the Karroun Hill Nature Reserve. After a week of searching, she was located limping along a bush track, close to her vehicle. Although she suffered minor injuries and had been bitten extensively by mosquitoes, she was in surprisingly good condition considering the circumstances.
Cassar cautioned against common misconceptions surrounding outback survival. “Unless you are injured, a dingo is not much of a threat,” he stated. Instead, he urged travelers to be more concerned about the impact of insects and the psychological toll of being lost. He advised maintaining mental clarity, as stress can exacerbate physical challenges. “Stay even. Celebrate small victories like finding water,” he suggested.
In the aftermath of her rescue, Wilga faced online scrutiny, with critics questioning her decision to leave her vehicle in search of water. Despite this, Cassar defended her actions, noting that her initiative to find a water source was vital for her survival. “She managed to find a puddle, which probably kept her alive,” he stated. Nonetheless, he recommended leaving markers to trace one’s path back to the vehicle, reinforcing the importance of staying put to facilitate rescue efforts.
Cassar also shared several essential survival tips for anyone venturing into remote areas. He emphasized the importance of staying with a vehicle, marking paths if one must leave in search of resources, and using a signaling mirror to attract rescuers. He noted that creating a fire could be life-saving for warmth and visibility, advising caution when using flammable materials like a spare tire, which can produce thick smoke visible from afar.
Reflecting on the broader implications of her experience, Cassar reiterated the need for public awareness and education in bush survival techniques. He called for basic survival courses to be mandatory for anyone planning to explore remote regions, highlighting the growing number of incidents where timely knowledge could make a difference.
As Wilga recovers in Royal Perth Hospital, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those in the wilderness and underscores the critical importance of preparation and understanding the unique risks of the Australian outback.
