Lost Backpacker Carolina Wilga Rescued - Alive and Well

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German backpacker Carolina Wilga has been found alive after being missing for 12 days in Western Australia.

Police confirmed she was located walking on a bush track on the edge of Karroun Hill Nature Reserve by a member of the public.

Inspector Martin Glynn said the 26-year-old was being taken to hospital for treatment.

“As you can imagine, from the trauma she suffered for the last few days, she’s been obviously through a great deal,” he said.

“She does have some injuries, she’s been ravaged by mosquitoes.”

Glynn said she was in a “fragile” state but did not appear to have major injuries, describing it as a “great result” for Wilga’s family and those involved in the search.

A dark shot of a small plane on a runway

Carolina Wilga was transported to hospital for treatment. Source: SBS News / Christopher Tan

“You know, she’s obviously coped in some amazing conditions.

“There’s a very hostile environment out there, both from flora and fauna. It’s a really, really challenging environment to cope in.”

When did Carolina Wilga go missing?

Wilga, who has been travelling and working in Australia for two years, had last been seen on 29 June in the town of Beacon, a small town roughly 300km north-east of Perth.

Her disappearance triggered a nationwide search after a desperate plea for help from her mother amid concerns for her daughter’s safety.

German backpacker Carolina Wilga had plans to solo travel around regional Western Australia. Source: AAP / WA Police

Her Mitsubishi van was found on Thursday about 35km inland from any main tracks. Police said the vehicle appeared to have suffered mechanical issues and was bogged in mud following rain.

Authorities conducted air and ground searches and had planned to continue surveillance flights at night and into Saturday.

— Additional reporting by the Australian Associated Press