10 MAY, 2008: CARE's emergency assessment teams have returned to Yangon from Myanmar's Irrawaddy delta region with reports of massive destruction.

'Whole towns and villages have been completely wiped out leaving the survivors with only what they have on their backs', said CARE's Country Director, Brian Agland.

'The loss of life and the level of suffering and destruction is far worse than what we are seeing in Yangon,' he continued.

CARE emergency assessment staff have described traumatic scenes of decaying bodies strewn amongst the debris in the Delta.

One week after Cyclone Nargis tore across Myanmar, the acute desperation of survivors for lifesaving supplies such as clean water, food and shelter is overwhelming.

'We're purchasing supplies in Yangon to ensure our distribution to the Irrawaddy delta of food and water happens immediately', says Dr Julia Newton-Howes, Chief Executive of CARE Australia.

'It is essential that the UN and government authorities agree on an appropriate mechanism for the entry of staff and the receipt and distribution of goods,' she stressed.

Australians have responded with customary generosity to CARE Australia's Cyclone Nargis Appeal. 'Since launching our appeal we have raised more than $350,000 and we're extremely grateful to the Australian public,' said Dr Newton-Howes.

Due to magnitude of this disaster more funds are desperately required to meet immediate and longer-term needs.

'It will be a long road to recovery in Myanmar,' said Dr Newton-Howes.

For interviews contact Roslyn Boatman: ph +61 419 567 777 or +61 3 9421 5572 email: roslyn.boatman@careaustralia.org.au