Lesia Burford is a Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI™) who has been involved in K9 Nose Work® since 2012. Her journey into the sport began when she attended a class with her Border Collie, Ranger, a highly reactive young dog who found confidence and purpose through searching. What started as a way to help one dog soon became a passion for helping others discover the benefits of scent work.

Introduced to the sport by Marion Brand, founder of ACSW™ and K9 Nose Time, Lesia quickly became immersed in the training, education and competitive aspects of K9 Nose Work®. In 2018, she took over ownership of K9 Nose Time and has since grown it into one of Australia’s leading Nose Work training communities, offering classes, workshops, trials and online education for dogs and handlers of all experience levels.

Lesia is passionate about creating an inclusive environment where every dog can succeed, particularly dogs who may struggle in traditional training settings. She believes scent work provides an opportunity for dogs to use their natural instincts, build confidence and strengthen their relationship with their handlers. Alongside teaching, Lesia is a Judge and Certifying Official for Australian Canine Scent Work (ACSW™) and regularly hosts trials and educational events. She holds a Bachelor of Science and a postgraduate qualification in Emergency Management.

Based in Sydney, Lesia shares her home with her veteran Border Collie, Ranger, and her energetic Working Cocker Spaniel, Flare, who continue to remind her why she loves the sport so much.