A backpacker who survived nearly two weeks of loss in the Western Australia inland losses, said she was “thank you very much and has survived”.
Caroline Wilga, a 26-year-old German national, spent 11 frozen nights alone and lost in the bushes and was rescued on Friday.
She drank from the puddle and sheltered in the cave to survive, Police said.
In her first public statement since she was rescued, Ms. Willga said she lost control of the van, leaving her out of the vehicle in a state of chaos.
She was found by a driver and was airlifted to a hospital in Perth where she was recovering.
Ms. Wilga thanked the medical staff, the German consulate and everyone who helped her in the statement posted to the Western Australian police on Instagram.
“I want to express my gratitude from the bottom of my heart – it really comes from the depth of my soul,” she said.
Ms. Willga added: “Some people may wonder why I even have water, food and clothes there,” Ms. Willga added.
She said she “lost control of the car and rolled down the slope” and hit her in the head “significantly” in the subsequent crash.
“As a result of the accident, I put the car into a state of chaos and lost my way,” she added.
“In the past, I didn’t know where I was in the culture on the other side of the world, but now, I feel part of it. I’m impressed by the courage, help and warmth that has been shown here to me.
“West Australia has taught me the real meaning of being a part of a real community. Here, humanity, unity and care for each other are really important – and in the end, that’s what matters most.”
Tania Henley, the motorist whom Ms. Wilga called her “Savior and Angel”, walked barefoot, more than 30 kilometers from where she gave up her van.
Ms Henry told Australian public broadcaster ABC that she saw Ms. Willga waving on the side of the road, she seemed to be in a “vulnerable state”, exhausted, dehydrated, insect bites and injured feet.
Ms. Henry said: “Everything in this bush is thorny. I can’t believe she survived. She didn’t have shoes, she lifted her feet.”
Before the rescue, Ms. Wilga appeared at a grocery store in Beacon Town, Western Australia on June 29.
“I’m sure I’ll have to survive because of this incredible support,” she said.
“The idea of all the people who believe me, search for me and always want me to give me the power to move forward in my darkest moments,” she said.
Acting police inspector Jessica Securo said in a press conference that the rescue boils down to “pure luck.”
