Lost in the wilderness - SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST

COURAGEOUS STORIES OF AUSSIES STRANDED IN REMOTE AND DANGEROUS PLACES

- Sarah Marinos.

Australia is one of the world's most beautiful countries, but in the blink of an eye it can become one of the most dangerous places. Vast and remote, with temperatures veering between searingly hot and freezing cold, and filled with creatures capable of delivering a lethal bite or sting, getting lost in the bush is a life-or-death prospect. While some perish, others find their survival instinct kicks in...

THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS AND A SNAKEBITE

Lovisa Sjoberg survived for 12 days in the chilly Snowy Mountains, after hiking in the rugged landscape to photograph wild horses. Lovisa, 48, was a passionate supporter of the brumbies that live in Kosciuszko National Park.

But during a photography trip to the region in October 2024, she became lost. When Lovisa failed to return her hire car on time, the rental company became concerned and alerted the police. A massive search and rescue operation was quickly mobilised, involving people on foot, in off-road vehicles, on horseback and in a plane and helicopter.

As temperatures dropped to freezing overnight, and as days passed without a sighting, rescuers became increasingly fearful of her chances of survival.

But miracles can and do happen, and Lovisa was found “dazed and injured” by rescue services after 12 long days. She had rolled her ankle, was dehydrated and had been bitten by a copperhead snake.