It brought to an end a massive search that began when Wilga’s worried family in Germany contacted police after not hearing from her. The last confirmed sighting of Wilga was on June 29, and the search began on July 4.
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Wilga has offered little insight into her 11 nights in the bush, but said she survived by sleeping in a cave, drinking from puddles and using the sun as her guide.
While in hospital she has released a statement thanking those who were desperately searching for her, and later released two photos from her hospital bed, saying she had lost 12 kilograms.
“First and foremost, I want to express a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart – a thank you that truly comes from the depth of my soul! For all the incredible support during the search for me,” she said.
“I am deeply impressed by the courage, helpfulness, and warmth that has been shown to me here. Western Australia has taught me what it really means to be part of a true community. Here, humanity, solidarity, and care for one another are what truly matter — and in the end, that’s what counts most.”
Celebrity agent and public relations expert Max Markson said Wilga would likely be fielding calls from media outlets across the country wanting to share her story, with Nine’s 60 Minutes and Seven’s Spotlight showing interest.
He said she could demand as much as $100,000, however it is not known if she has been approached.
She returns to Germany after spending 19 months travelling and working in Australia.