Former Surveyor's Office

The buildings and surroundings at 178 -180 High Street are significant. This includes the 1853 stone building, the weatherboard additions c.1870 and the two storey tower room added c.1907. The garden curtilage including the mature trees and orchard is also of significance. 

The timber outbuilding used as a barn and garage is also significant.

178-180 High Street, Heathcote is potentially of significance to the state of Victoria

The house Helenslee is historically significant for its associations with the government administration in Heathcote as office of the government surveyor from 1853 until 1861. The additions constructed c.1870 are significant for associations with prominent Heathcote merchant and businessman Frederick Spinks. The further additions in 1890 and 1907 are historically significant for their associations with the medical profession in Heathcote, firstly Dr Alfred Esler , Dr James Owen, Dr Noel Bull, Dr J.C.Spencer and Dr Speed. Criterion A

Helenslee has aesthetic significance for its demonstration of Classical architecture in the design of the 1853 building by James Crowle, particularly in the design of windows, doors and chimneys, and in the high quality of the stonemasonry. It is a rare example of a government building dating from the 1850s, demonstrating a superior design and construction. The additions, although in a very different style, demonstrate a flamboyance, particularly in the construction of the tower. The whole allotment is significant for its large size and retention of many features including trees, fencing, outbuildings and the remnants of a garden. Criterion E