Abu Dhabi, Feb 23 (IANS/WAM): A cyclone shelter funded by Abu Dhabi has opened in Australia's Queensland state.

Sultan Abdullah Alyammahi, Charge d'Affaires at the UAE embassy in Australia, opened the new category-five cyclone shelter at Tully State School.

The shelter is part of a $60 million programme jointly funded by the governments of Abu Dhabi and Queensland.

The UAE diplomat said he hoped the shelter will provide a safe refuge for the people of Tully in any severe weather.

Queensland Premier Campbell Newman said Tully was one of the hardest hit places when Cyclone Yasi left a trail of destruction.

The shelter is capable of withstanding winds of more than 300 km per hour as experienced in a category-five cyclone, Newman said.

It measures 1,500 square metres, can house up to 800 people and is equipped with features to ensure comfort and safety during the event.

The building will also serve as a multipurpose sports facility, featuring netball and basketball courts, a sports lab and teaching facilities.