About us
We take pride in listening to our clients’ unique needs—ensuring our work reflects our commitment to quality and our promise: Real Surveyors. Real Solutions. By combining these values with the latest in modern surveying technology, we deliver a level of service that is truly second to none.
Clear communication is at the core of how we operate. We work closely with our clients to fully understand their needs, ensuring we don’t just deliver a service—we provide the right solution. We deliver accurate, reliable results for both land and civil projects, with a strong focus on understanding and prioritising each client’s specific requirements. Whether you’re planning, building, or developing, our expertise ensures you receive the precise data and support needed to move forward with confidence.
The Team
Chris Billington Director/Registered Surveyor
Chris is a 2010 graduate from Otago University in New Zealand and he moved to Australia in 2012. Chris’s experience spans across Civil, Commercial, Pre-Design, Engineering and Cadastral Surveys.
Chris started his surveying career in the early 2000’s with the pre-robotic total station age and early adoption to GNSS. This technology has developed at such a rate and is now a very technologically driven industry. During this period Chris had exposure to a wide range of environments which have given him a wealth of experience developing his skills not only as a highly regarded surveyor but also as an experienced construction/development industry member. Chris is registered with the Surveyors Board of Queensland and during his career has led and overseen major projects such as: Sunshine Coast Airport Expansion, Sunshine Coast City Hall, Beerburrum to Nambour Roading Upgrade, Aura to Harmony Trunk Infrastructure project, Gold Coast Light Rail and a range of smaller civil and commercial construction projects. In addition, local smaller scale developments and pre design surveys form a part of the day-to-day operations for Chris with each job as important as another.
Outside of surveying Chris is a family man with his wife and three daughters. Chris is a passionate sports fan. Originally from New Zealand the All Blacks will always be Number 1 however for the NRL the Queensland Cowboys are his team of choice. Chris enjoys being active and has completed a number of triathlons, ultra marathons and he is always ready to walk the fairways should the opportunity arise.
Lachlan Cox Commercial Survey Manager
Lachlan joined Next Step Surveying in early 2025, bringing with him a solid background in leading commercial construction projects across the Sunshine Coast. He is a Registered Associate with the Surveyors Board of Queensland.
Before entering the surveying industry, Lachlan’s career path was diverse. He holds a degree in Graphic Design and worked in Landscape Construction while travelling and living in the UK. Upon returning to Australia, he spent time in the mining industry with a geotechnical company—an experience that eventually inspired him to pursue a career in land surveying. This varied background gives Lachlan a uniquely practical approach to his work.
Known for his clear communication and sharp attention to detail, Lachlan leads our Commercial Construction Division. His personable nature and reliability quickly make him the surveyor of choice for many of our clients.
Outside of work, Lachlan enjoys life with his wife and two sons. A self-proclaimed sports fanatic, he’s always keen to discuss the weekend’s sporting results. Recently, he’s developed a passion for golf and is constantly looking for ways to fit a few holes into his day. Lachlan is a long-suffering Broncos fan and, as a born-and-bred local, a loyal Queensland supporter through and through.
Astin Cook Civil Construction Senior Surveyor
Astin joined Next Step Surveying in early 2025, stepping into the role of Senior Surveyor for our Local Civil and Land Development projects. With seven years of industry experience, Astin brings a wealth of practical knowledge and technical proficiency to our team. He is on track to complete his Bachelor's Degree in Surveying by the end of 2025.
Astin is also a licensed RPAS operator, qualified to conduct UAV operations and is Next Step Surveying chief pilot. His hands-on experience and expertise extend across a range of cutting-edge surveying technologies, including laser scanning, total stations, GNSS, and UAV systems—ensuring our projects benefit from precision and innovation.
Outside of work, Astin is embracing family life. Recently married, he and his partner are gearing up for global travels and exciting new adventures. A passionate sports fan and loyal Newcastle Knights supporter, Astin also enjoys pushing his own limits—having completed several long-distance running events, with an ambitious goal of conquering the Blackall 100 by 2030.
Scott Schultz Senior Surveyor - Projects
Scott holds a Bachelor of Spatial Science from the University of Southern Queensland and is currently in the process of gaining his surveyor registration with the Surveyors Board of Queensland. Scott brings over 5+ years of post-graduate experience in surveying and from the outset has been a surveyor of the future with a great work ethic and a practical approach to surveying. Scott’s experience has been highlighted by working on major infrastructure and construction projects across Queensland and New South Wales. He has worked on large-scale road and rail developments, complex civil construction sites, and infrastructure upgrades where precision and efficiency are essential. Scott is a strong team player who has worked closely with engineers, contractors, and project managers to ensure smooth and successful project delivery from start to finish.
Outside of work, you’ll often find him at the beach or on the golf course, enjoying the balance of friendly competition and the opportunity to relax and recharge in the outdoors. As a sports enthusiast, Scott enjoys tuning in to the NBA, AFL, NRL, Tennis or Golf.