I have sent a note to some friendly contacts to further expand the SOCH awareness.

I think my next step will be to look into Interim Heritage Orders - which protect items (places and objects) potentially of heritage significance that are under immediate threat.

The order provides up to a 12-month period where the item cannot be harmed while an in-depth heritage assessment is carried out for listing on an appropriate register.

Interim Heritage Orders are made by the Minister responsible for administering the Heritage Act 1977 on recommendation of the Heritage Council, or by local councils under delegation.

Anyone can request an Interim Heritage Order. Property owners/managers, community members, stakeholders and local councils can petition the Heritage Council for a response from the Minister.

In most cases, a response from local council will be most appropriate. I will contact our local council Heritage Advisor or Strategic Planner for advice before petitioning the Heritage Council.

To submit an Interim Heritage Order to Heritage NSW I will need to send an email request to heritagemailbox@environment.nsw.gov.au, there is apparently no specific form for application.