The former president of Sutherland Shire, serving from 1956-71, worked tirelessly to preserve the area's natural environment, and he also campaigned against a proposed international airport development near the shire's Towra Point Nature Reserve.
Community consultation was undertaken before it was confirmed that the shelter would be named the Arthur Gietzelt Memorial Lookout.
Mayor of Sutherland Steve Simpson said establishing names for local infrastructure and sites that were locally significant involved community consultation as a means of conveying the connection, identity and history between a place and the people. He added:
“When a person stands under this shelter and looks out along the water to Towra Point, they can appreciate the dedication of Arthur’s efforts to conserve this area and our local character.”
Among distinct elements of the site is the bird detailing, according to the mayor. He said surrounding footpaths included footprints of shorebirds, and the covering of the shelter featured outlines depicting soaring birds.
Located within the shared pathway of Woolooware Bay, which seeks to balance conservation with community access, the lookout is considered a significant site. Brochure printing campaigns boosting local tourism often include areas such as this as places to see.
The Woolooware Bay project has been recognised for noteworthy engineering and innovative design, and it has also won several international and local awards.