Entertainment news and discussion on TalkFuse.
Rescued teenager survived six days lost in the bush on rationed snack – as he enjoys his favourite McDonald’s meal after his emotional reunion with his mum
Seventeen-year-old William survived six days alone in rugged bushland near Walhalla East, about 180km east of Melbourne, after becoming lost near his campsite. His rescue by police helicopter ended an extensive search and brought an emotional reunion with his mother.
William said he fell down a steep embankment into a riverbed and rationed a family-sized packet of chicken-flavoured crisps over two days, while drinking creek water. He faced cold nights, rain and hot days, with temperatures reportedly falling to 3C; he had no phone and was wearing shorts and work boots. His mother said he has level two autism and needs substantial support. Doctors monitored him in hospital after the rescue, delaying his mother’s planned treat of a Quarter Pounder with bacon, a cheeseburger and six Chicken McNuggets.
In short
- William was found alive after six days in the Victorian bush.
- He rationed crisps and drank creek water to survive.
- His mother brought his favourite McDonald’s meal to hospital.
Explained simply
Walhalla East is a remote area of bushland in Victoria, around 180km east of Melbourne. Steep slopes, waterways and changing weather can make it difficult to travel through, and a person who becomes lost may be hard to find.
William was camping with his family when he became separated from them. His mother said he is autistic and needs substantial support, which is relevant to the family’s account of the search and reunion. Police searched the area and used a helicopter to locate him.
The case highlights the challenges of finding someone in rugged country, especially when they have no phone and face cold, wet conditions. After his rescue, doctors kept William in hospital for monitoring before he could go home with his mother.