THE FREMANTLE TREASURE HUNT

~AN UNTIMELY MURDER~

Spacefold Technology's much-anticipated writers' retreat is being held in Fremantle this year. Unfortunately, history's most beloved crime author Agatha Christie has been found dead. 

Five famous authors from across history have been suspended in time, and are now the prime suspects. As the best time travelling detectives Spacefold Technology can afford, you have been hired to solve the case. 

Explore Fremantle to discover six secret books that reveal how, when, and by whom this murder was committed. Each location reveals a new chapter in this thrilling case. Find all the books to solve the mystery and bring the killer to justice.

Gather your team of detectives and book your investigation now.

60–90 minutes | Teams of 1–6 | Fremantle

Limited sessions available during Totally Lit : 2 - 16 October 2026

$20 Per Group

Part escape room, part interactive story, part outdoor adventure

  • A treasure map full of puzzles, riddles, and clues

  • Secret items hidden in real world locations unlock the story

  • Explore Fremantle in a whole new way

What To Expect

  • A treasure map
  • Hidden NFC beacons across the city
  • Interactive puzzles and riddles
  • Immersive audio storytelling
  • A secret final location
  • Real world discoveries
  • Explore a 1km area of the town center
  • No app required*
  • Play at your own pace

Get your map, head into the city, and begin the adventure.

*NFC enabled smartphone required

Key Information

Team size: 1–6 detectives
Duration: Approximately 60–90 minutes
Location: Fremantle
Starting point: Fremantle Library
Format: Timed entry followed by a self-guided adventure
What you need: One NFC compatible, internet-connected smartphone per team
What you receive: A physical map collected form Fremantle Library prior to your session start
Ticket price: $20 per team
Festival dates: book your session between October 2–16, 2026

For readers, puzzlers and amateur sleuths

An Untimely Murder combines the intrigue of a classic murder mystery with the discovery of a real-world treasure hunt.

It’s perfect for:

  • Mystery and crime-fiction readers
  • Book clubs
  • Couples looking for a different day out
  • Groups of friends
  • Puzzle and escape-room fans
  • Families with older children

You don’t need to be a literary expert. You simply need curiosity, teamwork and a healthy suspicion of famous authors.

We recommend playing within business hours to access:

  • Aunty Lucy's Cakery
  • Fremantle Library
  • New Edition
  • DaRawNature Studio Gallery
  • Elizabeth's Bookshop
  • Quest Apartments Fremantle

ready to play?

Your next adventure starts here

FAQ's

What is NFC? And does my phone have it?

NFC is built in to most smart phones today. If you use your phone to pay for things then you have NFC enabled.

The beacons utilize this same technology to direct you to a simple webpage containing text, images, and audio that tell the Lost Professor's story.

Hold your phone above the beacon for up to 3 seconds to activate the NFC url and unlock the story to solve the puzzle.

How old do participants need to be?

The treasure hunt is designed for adults. It's suitable for ages 14+ with guardian supervision.

What is An Untimely Murder?

An Untimely Murder is a self-guided murder mystery treasure hunt created by Fictional Reality for Totally Lit. Your team will explore Fremantle, discover six secret books, solve puzzles and investigate a crime involving famous authors from across history.

When does the treasure hunt take place?

The treasure hunt is available to play during the Totally Lit Fest from 2-16, October, 2026

As this treasure hunt involves interacting with Freo businesses we recommend playing between the hours of 10am - 5pm Tuesday - Saturday and 11am-3pm on Sunday.

Where does it take place?

The game takes place throughout Fremantle, Western Australia. All locations are within the Fremantle area and accessible on foot within a 500m radius of Fremantle CBD.

Where do I start?

Your investigation begins at Fremantle Library, where you will collect your physical map and case information. Please arrive at your allocated starting time.

The treasure hunt is non-linear, meaning you can investigate any location shown on the map marked by an X.

How long does the treasure hunt take?

Most teams will complete the experience in approximately 60–90 minutes, depending on how quickly players solve the puzzles. However the experience is designed to play at your own pace.

How do I get the map?

You can purchase an A3 treasure map from our website.

Visit the Fremantle Library prior to your session booking to collect the map.

Is the experience hosted?

Your team will begin at a reserved time, but the treasure hunt itself is self-guided. Once you have collected your map, you can investigate at your own pace.

How many people can play?

You can play solo or with friends and family. Many players choose to work together in small teams.

Each ticket covers one team of 1–6 players. We recommend investigating as a team so everyone can discuss the evidence and collaborate.

Is the treasure hunt family friendly?

Yes. The event is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, though younger players may need help solving some puzzles.

Do I need a phone to play?

A smartphone capable of NFC technology will be required to play the treasure hunt.

If you use your phone for "tap and pay" then your phone is NFC compatible. Refer to your system settings for NFC compatibility.

Do I need internet access?

Yes, your phone will be required to access the internet to play the media content needed to complete the map puzzles.

Will I need to enter buildings or businesses?

Yes. This treasure hunt is partnered with local Fremantle businesses (TOP Coffee, The Pickled Fairy, The Fremantle Markets, New Edition, Shipwreck Museum). For best accessibility check the participating store hours. We recommend playing the event within 9am - 5pm Mon - Sun.

TOP Coffee and the Fremantle Markets beacon locations are accessible at any time.