Carolina Wilga is a 26-year-old German backpacker from Castrop-Rauxel, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for her remarkable survival story in the Australian outback. She had been living and traveling solo in Western Australia for two years, supporting herself through work on farms and mine sites. In July 2025, Wilga gained international attention after surviving 12 days lost in the remote Wheatbelt region of Western Australia following a car accident that left her stranded without communication or adequate supplies. Her Mitsubishi Delica became bogged in wet sand about 35 kilometers from the nearest road near the Karroun Hill nature reserve. After unsuccessful attempts to free the vehicle and spending a night with it, she set out on foot to find help but became lost. During her ordeal, Wilga survived on minimal food, sourced water from rain and puddles, found shelter in places such as a cave, and endured extreme weather conditions including cold nights and heavy rain. She was eventually spotted by a local about 15 miles from her abandoned vehicle and rescued by authorities[1][2][3]. Wilga was treated for minor injuries, including a head injury from the crash and numerous mosquito bites, as well as receiving emotional support. She expressed gratitude for the widespread search efforts and community support, which she credited with giving her strength to survive. Despite the trauma, she indicated a desire to continue her travels in Australia, with plans to visit the East Coast still on her bucket list[2][3]. Her survival story has become a symbol of human endurance and the importance of community support in crisis situations, inspiring travelers and adventure enthusiasts worldwide. While not a public figure before the incident, Carolina Wilga’s experience has highlighted the risks of the Australian wilderness and the resilience required to overcome them[1][3].