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- Stories Unseen: Trailblazing Tourism with Awards and Accolades
At Stories Unseen, we’re passionate about crafting unforgettable, self-guided experiences that inspire exploration and curiosity. Behind the scenes, our team works tirelessly to ensure every tour is not only engaging but also aligns with the highest standards of quality, accessibility, and sustainability. As we look back on our journey, we’re proud to share the recognition we’ve received for these efforts. We're grateful for the support from local, state and federal government including Landgate's SPUR Program 2024 WA Heritage Award: Making Heritage Accessible Stories Unseen was honoured with the prestigious 2024 WA Heritage Award . This accolade recognises our innovative approach to bringing Western Australia’s rich heritage to life. By combining immersive technology with compelling storytelling, we’ve made cultural and historical landmarks more accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages. This award highlights our commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of our past while making them relevant to the present. Finalist in Tourism and Technology Awards Our innovative blend of technology and storytelling has earned us recognition as a finalist in both tourism and technology awards . These accolades celebrate our ability to seamlessly integrate cutting-edge technology into the travel experience, providing visitors with a unique way to discover the world around them. This includes the WA Tourism Awards in both 2022 and 2023 - the two years that we entered! Some of the Stories Unseen team - don't they scrub up well! Quality Tourism Certified As a Quality Tourism Certified business, we adhere to rigorous standards that ensure our customers receive exceptional experiences every time. This certification is a testament to our dedication to delivering top-tier products that meet and exceed industry benchmarks. We've done the legwork so that you don't have to - regular functional and user experience testing ensures every adventure is seamless Accessibility and Sustainability Certifications Accessibility and sustainability are at the heart of what we do. We’ve earned certifications in both areas, ensuring that our tours are inclusive and environmentally conscious. From designing tours that cater to diverse needs to partnering with local suppliers who share our sustainability ethos, we’re actively shaping a more equitable and eco-friendly tourism landscape. Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) Listed Stories Unseen is proudly listed on the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) , a trusted resource for high-quality tourism experiences across Australia. This listing amplifies our reach and solidifies our reputation as a leading provider of self-guided tours. Featured on Channel 9’s Innovation Nation In 2024, Stories Unseen was featured on Channel 9’s Innovation Nation , a platform showcasing trailblazing businesses across Australia. This feature spotlighted our role in redefining heritage tourism and inspired viewers to think differently about travel and exploration. Watch here! Over $75,000 in Grants Secured Since 2022, we’ve received over $75,000 in government grants , supporting our mission to innovate and expand. These funds have enabled us to develop new tours, improve accessibility, and extend our platform’s capabilities for other businesses. This includes throwing epic launch events with some of our many collaborators. Adelaide partner, Sondra Stewart with co-founder Erin Clark A Journey Fuelled by Passion and Innovation From our beginnings as a small Perth-based company to becoming a nationally recognised leader in travel tech, Stories Unseen’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Our awards and accreditations are not just milestones; they’re reminders of the incredible community of travellers, partners, and supporters who make what we do possible. Thank you for being part of our story. Together, we’ll continue to explore more, uncover hidden gems, and bring untold stories to life. Discover your next adventure with Stories Unseen.
- Uncovering the History of Australia Day: A Day of Reflection and Storytelling
Australia Day, celebrated on 26 January, is a date that stirs mixed emotions across the nation. For some, it’s a day to celebrate the rich tapestry of Australian culture, achievements, and unity. For others, it is a day of mourning, marking the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 and the beginning of a painful chapter for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. When the First Fleet arrived in Sydney Cove in 1788 from England, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation lived along the waterways, relying on fishing, hunting and gathering. Their arrival marked significant disruption, including loss of land, introduction of diseases and violent conflicts. At Stories Unseen , we believe in exploring the stories that shape us—past, present, and future. The history of Australia Day is one such story, steeped in complexity and worth understanding. The Beginnings: A Broader Context While establishing a British colony in 1788 is the historical basis for Australia Day, the history of exploration and connection to this land extends far beyond that. Long before the British, other explorers visited these shores: Makassan Traders (1600s) : Makassan fishermen from modern-day Indonesia had been visiting northern Australia for centuries, trading with Indigenous Australians and exchanging knowledge. Dutch Explorers (1606) : Willem Janszoon, aboard the Duyfken , was the first European to land on Australian soil, mapping part of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Later, explorers like Dirk Hartog (1616) and Abel Tasman (1642) further charted parts of the Australian coastline. Portuguese Theories : Some historians suggest that Portuguese explorers might have reached Australian shores as early as the 16th century, based on old maps and theories, though this remains debated. French Expeditions (1700s) : Explorers like Nicolas Baudin and Louis de Freycinet charted significant parts of Australia, often working in parallel with British efforts during the Age of Exploration. Chinese Influence : There’s evidence to suggest early Chinese sailors may have known of or visited the northern regions of Australia before European contact. A Contested Legacy For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, 26 January symbolises the invasion of their lands, the displacement of their cultures, and the loss of countless lives. This day is often referred to as Invasion Day or Survival Day , highlighting the resilience of First Nations peoples and their continuous connection to country. The history of exploration only underscores that Australia’s story is not singular. It’s one of diverse interactions with this land over millennia, from the 65,000+ years of Indigenous stewardship to the more recent chapters written by global explorers. Modern Reflections In recent years, the conversation around Australia Day has intensified. Many Australians are calling for the date to change to better reflect inclusivity and unity. Events like Survival Day concerts and ceremonies offer opportunities to listen to and learn from Indigenous voices, fostering a greater understanding of Australia’s shared history. Why These Stories Matter As an organisation dedicated to uncovering untold stories, we see Australia Day as a moment to pause, reflect, and learn. Understanding the layers of history behind this day helps us move toward a future that honours the diversity and complexity of our nation’s identity. This Australia Day, we invite you to explore the stories that have shaped this land. Let’s listen, learn, and share, ensuring that the narratives of all Australians are seen, heard, and respected. #ExploreMore with Stories Unseen.
- Why We’re Joining Buy Nothing Day: Connecting People, Not Stuff
At Stories Unseen, we’ve always believed in the power of experiences to connect people and places. This year, we’re taking a stand against the consumerism frenzy of Black Friday by participating in Buy Nothing Day on Friday 29th November. Instead of pushing sales, we’re celebrating the art of giving — not things, but experiences. That’s why we’re offering free access to our Perth and Adelaide tours for the entire weekend. What Is Buy Nothing Day? Buy Nothing Day originated in Canada in September 1992 as a day for reflecting on the issue of overconsumption. By 1997, it had shifted to Black Friday — one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Today, Buy Nothing Day encourages people worldwide to pause, take stock of their habits, and consider how they can contribute to a more mindful, less materialistic society. What Does It Mean to Take Part? Being part of Buy Nothing Day is about more than just resisting sales; it’s about embracing generosity and mindfulness. At its core, it’s guided by two key principles: Give freely : Offer gifts or acts of kindness without expecting anything in return. Give from your own abundance : Share from what you already have, whether it’s time, skills, or heartfelt gestures. We see this day as the perfect opportunity to align with these values. For us, the most valuable gifts aren’t tangible — they’re the moments of connection and discovery that come from exploring the stories of a place. How We’re Joining the Movement Here’s how you can access our walking tours for free this weekend: Download the Stories Unseen app. Browse our range of walking tours and select the one that excites you most. Use the code NOTHING to unlock any tour for free any time between Friday 29th November to Sunday 1st December. Enjoy! Once downloaded, you’ll have 3 months of access to your chosen tour. That’s it. No mailing list sign-ups, no social media gimmicks, no strings attached. Just pure, unfettered access to experiences that connect you to the world around you. Why It Matters By participating in Buy Nothing Day, we’re making a statement: The joy of connection and discovery far outweighs the temporary satisfaction of acquiring more things. When you join us in exploring stories unseen, you’re choosing to invest in memories over merchandise, in experiences over excess. A Small Heads-Up We do want to be transparent: this offer does not include our gift cards or vouchers. From time to time, the Stories Unseen app might nudge you with messages like “Leave us a review” or “Check out our other tours.” These prompts help us keep improving and sharing experiences with a wider audience. But rest assured, you won’t need to make any purchases to enjoy your free tour. So this Friday, let’s embrace the spirit of giving without strings. Let’s explore more, connect more, and consume less. Together, we can turn Buy Nothing Day into something truly extraordinary. Unlock your free tour today and join the movement to rediscover the world — one story at a time. Happy adventuring, The Stories Unseen Team
- Crafting Connection Through Storytelling
Behind the Scenes at Stories Unseen In a rapidly evolving tourism landscape, self-guided tours have become a popular way for travellers to explore at their own pace. However, not all tours are created equal. At Stories Unseen, we believe in the importance of our industry—not just for helping people navigate new places, but for preserving the stories, cultures, and histories that make those places meaningful. Here’s a glimpse into what we do and why it matters. Celebrating Local Stories and Histories Tourism isn’t just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about connecting with the spirit of a place. At Stories Unseen, we work closely with historians and local communities to ensure the stories we tell are authentic, accurate, and respectful. Every detail, from the origins of a building to the anecdotes of its neighbourhood, is carefully researched and shared to offer an experience that resonates. Visualising the Past and Present One of the joys of exploring a city is imagining how it once was. That’s why we use professional photographers to create then-and-now imagery, overlaying archival photos with modern scenes to bring history to life. These visuals don’t just show change—they tell the story of how places have grown and evolved. People at the Heart of the Experience While some new entrants in the industry rely solely on AI to generate their content, we take a different approach. Every script is crafted by talented writers who blend humour, personality, and insight into each story. Every audio recording you hear is voiced by real people, capturing the warmth and authenticity that make stories feel alive. Why This Work Matters Our industry plays a vital role in preserving the intangible—memories, histories, and cultures that might otherwise be forgotten. By highlighting these elements, tourism can contribute to a deeper understanding of the world around us. It’s also a way to support local economies, showcase community stories, and give a platform to voices that deserve to be heard. Commitment to Quality and Community We take our responsibility seriously. That’s why we’re active members of tourism and history associations and attend industry events to stay informed and connected. Stories Unseen is fully accredited, and we’re committed to creating experiences that respect the places we feature and the people who live there. Always Striving to Do Better Innovation is at the core of what we do. We’re constantly upgrading our platform, testing new ways to enhance the experience, and listening to feedback to improve. But one thing remains constant: our dedication to putting thoughtful, human-centred storytelling at the forefront. The Bigger Picture At its heart, tourism is about connection—connection to a place, its people, and its stories. Through what we do, we hope to make those connections deeper and more meaningful. In an industry increasingly driven by automation, we’re proud to keep people, passion, and purpose at the centre of our work. This is why we do what we do—not just to help people explore, but to help them understand, appreciate, and connect. It’s not just about the journey; it’s about the stories that journey reveals.
- The History of Gift Giving at Christmas: A Timeless Tradition
As the holiday season approaches, the tradition of gift-giving comes alive, bringing joy, generosity, and the excitement of sharing something meaningful with loved ones. But have you ever wondered where this tradition started and how it became such an essential part of Christmas celebrations? Let’s take a journey through history to uncover the origins and evolution of this beloved custom. Ancient Roots of Gift-Giving Long before Christmas as we know it, ancient civilizations exchanged gifts during the winter solstice celebrations. In Rome, for instance, people celebrated *Saturnalia*, a festival honouring the god Saturn, where gifts were exchanged as a gesture of goodwill and to mark the lengthening days after the winter solstice. People would exchange simple tokens such as candles, figurines, and even fruit as a symbol of prosperity for the year ahead. This ancient practice of giving symbolic items and showing generosity during the darkest time of the year laid the foundation for gift-giving traditions to come. The Influence of St. Nicholas Fast-forward to the 4th century, and we meet St. Nicholas, a bishop known for his kindness, generosity, and secret gift-giving. He became the inspiration behind the legend of Santa Claus. One well-known story recounts how St. Nicholas helped a poor family by secretly placing gold coins in their stockings, which were hung by the fire to dry. St. Nicholas’s anonymous acts of charity turned him into a figure of gift-giving and inspired people to carry out their own acts of kindness. Over time, stories of St. Nicholas’s generosity spread, particularly through Europe. By the Middle Ages, December 6th—St. Nicholas’s feast day—became a day for exchanging gifts, especially for children. In many European cultures, this day became a precursor to the gift-giving tradition we associate with Christmas today. The Arrival of Christmas Gift-Giving in Victorian Times It wasn’t until the 19th century that the tradition of gift-giving became firmly tied to Christmas itself, largely due to the influence of Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert. Together, they popularised Christmas as a family-centred holiday, complete with decorated Christmas trees, holiday cards, and gift exchanges. Prince Albert, who was German, introduced the custom of decorating a Christmas tree in the royal household, which soon caught on throughout England and beyond. As the holiday became more commercialized, people began to purchase rather than make gifts, making Christmas shopping an anticipated part of the season. Victorian literature, particularly Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol , also played a significant role in shaping modern Christmas traditions by emphasising themes of generosity, compassion, and community. The Rise of Santa Claus By the 20th century, Santa Claus—based on St. Nicholas—had become an iconic figure synonymous with gift-giving on Christmas Eve. Popularized by poets like Clement Clarke Moore with *A Visit from St. Nicholas* (“’Twas the Night Before Christmas”) and commercial advertisements, especially those from Coca-Cola, Santa Claus evolved into the red-suited, jolly figure we know today. Santa’s image encouraged the idea of giving gifts as a way to spread joy and kindness, especially to children. The Modern Tradition of Christmas Gift-Giving Today, the tradition of giving gifts at Christmas has taken on countless forms around the world. Some families exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, while others open presents on Christmas morning. Many countries have incorporated unique customs into their Christmas celebrations; for instance, in some cultures, children place shoes or stockings by the door or fireplace, hoping for treats and small gifts. The spirit of gift-giving at Christmas endures because it allows us to express love, appreciation, and gratitude. Whether it’s a simple handmade present or a carefully chosen item, each gift symbolizes the joy of connecting with those we care about and participating in a tradition that spans centuries. Make Your Christmas Gift-Giving Memorable with Stories Unseen At Stories Unseen, we believe that the best gifts are those that create memories. This Christmas, why not gift an experience rather than an object? Our curated, self-guided tours make for unique and meaningful presents that allow your loved ones to explore the world in a new way. Each tour is a journey through stories, history, and local gems, perfect for the adventurer or the history lover in your life. As we celebrate the history of Christmas gift-giving, let’s continue to cherish the true spirit of the season—showing thoughtfulness, creating memories, and celebrating the people who make our lives special.
- Today’s the Day! Our Adelaide Tours Are Officially Here! 🎉
Hey Adelaide (and everyone who loves a good adventure)! After months of planning, lots of laughs, and plenty of "let's just try it" moments, we’re so excited to say: our Adelaide tours are officially live! We've had a blast with the soft launch, testing things out and hearing from the early explorers who got a sneak peek. Now, we’re ready to open these stories up to everyone! So, why Adelaide? Well, let’s just say this city has way more up its sleeve than people might realize. It’s a place with some of the coolest hidden stories, a knack for being "first" in so many ways, and a history that’s all its own. Our goal? To help you experience all that—without the stuffy museum vibe, and definitely without rushing. What You’ll Find on Our Adelaide Tours If you’re here, you probably already know we do things a little differently. These self-guided tours are designed for explorers who want to walk their own path. Imagine wandering along the River Torrens with the story of Adelaide's beginnings unfolding in your ears or discovering quirky local legends as you stroll down a bustling street. This isn’t just about landmarks; it’s about feeling the pulse of Adelaide’s history and culture, up close and personal. We crafted these tours with our friends at South Australian Destination Management Co. , who were just as excited as we are to make something perfect for independent travellers. Plus, if you’re coming off a cruise and looking for an easy, fun way to dive into Adelaide, we’ve got you covered. Thank You to Our Early Testers! To everyone who helped us during the soft launch—thank you! Your feedback, enthusiasm, and little “aha” moments made all the difference. We’ve tweaked, polished, and added a few fun surprises thanks to you, so we’re even more ready for the big launch today. Ready to Explore? Here’s How It Works Download our app, pop in your earbuds, and set off at your own pace. The stories come to you with each step, and you can explore however you like—stop for a coffee, snap a pic, or even replay that one fun fact you didn’t quite catch the first time. It's all about making the experience yours. So, Adelaide—are you ready? We can’t wait to share this city’s stories with you. Thanks for being part of this journey with us. It’s not just about seeing a new place; it’s about finding the stories that make it feel like home. Download the Stories Unseen app today and come see (or should we say *hear*) what Adelaide has to say!
- Behind the Scenes: How We Test Every Stories Unseen Tour (Yes, Even the Dad Jokes)
Did you know that Stories Unseen was the first tour app to be accredited under the Quality Tourism Accreditation Program ? Yep, we take our tours seriously—but we have a lot of fun along the way. From testing every route to taste-testing every restaurant, there’s a lot that goes into making sure each tour is as amazing as it sounds. Want a peek behind the curtain? Here’s how we make sure everything is perfect before we launch. The Walk-Through: Is It Actually a Nice Walk? We don’t just pick a route off a map and call it a day. Oh no. We walk each and every route before we even think about building a tour. We’re all about making sure it’s a nice walk—whether that’s through bustling streets or quiet lanes, it’s gotta have that “perfect stroll” vibe. Script Check: Are the Dad Jokes Hilarious? Our virtual guides may love a good dad joke, but we make sure those jokes land! Every tour script goes through multiple rounds of review to ensure the facts are solid and the jokes are, well, actually funny. If we’re not giggling, it’s back to the drawing board. Restaurant & Bar Testing: The Perks of the Job Let’s be honest— taste-testing the restaurants and bars we recommend might just be the best part of the process. We personally visit each spot to make sure they live up to the hype. If we’re suggesting a place for a pitstop, you can trust we’ve eaten there (and probably ordered dessert, too). GPS and Functional Testing: No Tech Glitches Allowed Ever had an audio guide trigger too early or too late? Annoying, right? We do extensive testing on the GPS points to make sure the audio kicks in exactly when you’re in the right spot. On top of that, we check and recheck the app itself to make sure there are no sneaky glitches. If there’s a bug, we squash it. Beta Testing: From 20-Year-Olds to 70-Year-Olds We know that different people enjoy different things, so we take out beta groups with mixed ages and interests to test every tour. From the curious 20-somethings to seasoned 70-year-olds, we want to make sure we’re catering to everyone. If something doesn’t work for the group, we adjust it until it does. Constant Upgrades: Keeping Up with the Latest Tech With phones and operating systems updating all the time, we make sure our app is always ahead of the curve. We regularly upgrade the platform to make sure it works smoothly on the latest iPhones, Androids, and everything in between. Support at Your Fingertips: Both iPhone and Android Our support team is on top of things— armed with both an iPhone and an Android device —so we can test things out as soon as you flag something. We’ve got you covered no matter what device you’re using. So, next time you’re on one of our tours, know that we’ve tested (and re-tested) every joke, every bite of food, and every step of the way. We want it to feel like the best day out exploring, and we’ve put in the work to make sure it’s exactly that.
- How to Plan the Ultimate Date Night with Stories Unseen
Looking for a date night idea that’s fun, memorable, and just a little bit different? Forget the predictable dinner and a movie! With Stories Unseen, you can take your date on a unique journey filled with adventure, laughter, and discovery—all from the palm of your hand. Whether you’re with a long-time partner or someone new, our curated, self-guided tours will make your next date night unforgettable. Why Choose Stories Unseen for Date Night? Imagine strolling through hidden laneways, uncovering local stories, or sharing a laugh at quirky facts about your city’s past. Our immersive, self-guided tours allow you to explore your surroundings while diving into the stories that make a place special. Plus, you’ll be able to pause the experience at any time, grab a drink at a local bar, or enjoy some snacks along the way. It’s like having a personal tour guide, but on your own terms. Here’s how to make your Stories Unseen date night extra special. 1. Pick the Perfect Tour for Your Vibe Every couple is different, so we’ve designed a variety of tours to suit every kind of date. If you’re both history buffs or just love uncovering hidden gems, a historical tour like Tales On Tap could be the perfect way to bond while sipping craft beers at iconic pubs. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, our Perth to Pinnacles Immersive Driving Tou r offers a day trip experience you’ll both treasure, filled with stories of natural wonders and a touch of road-trip romance. Do a little research, check out our list of tours, and choose one that suits your shared interests. Whether it’s art, history, food, or just good stories, we’ve got something to fit. 2. Turn the Tour into a Challenge Turn your tour into a little friendly competition! Set mini challenges along the way, like who can answer the trivia questions the fastest or who can spot the hidden details first. You can even make it fun by offering rewards—loser buys the next round of drinks or winner picks where you go for dessert. This playful twist will keep the energy up and make the experience more interactive. 3. Take Advantage of the Local Hotspots Our tours are designed to guide you through some of the best spots in the city, including local bars, restaurants, and cafes. Why not plan your stops around your date night plans? You could start with a sunset walk along the River Torrens as part of the Adelaide Firsts tour, then wrap up the evening with a romantic dinner at one of the nearby riverside restaurants. If you’re doing our Perth Pub Crawl , discover great watering holes as you enjoy some cheeky drinks and share stories. There’s no pressure to rush through the tour. Feel free to take a break, enjoy each other’s company, and savour the moment. 4. Capture the Memories We know every date night is special, and exploring with Stories Unseen gives you the perfect backdrop for a photo or two. Capture your favourite moments as you explore, whether it’s under the soft glow of streetlights, near a vibrant mural, or in front of a historical building that caught your eye. You’ll not only remember the stories, but you’ll have lasting keepsakes from your night out. 5. End the Night on a Sweet Note What’s date night without a little indulgence? Finish your Stories Unseen adventure at one of our recommended local dessert spots. Many of our tours include stops that will satisfy your sweet tooth, whether it’s a cozy café or an ice cream shop with a twist. Ending on a high note will leave both of you with fond memories and plenty to talk about next time! Ready to Plan Your Date Night? Using Stories Unseen for date night turns an ordinary evening into an extraordinary experience. Whether you’re discovering something new together or revisiting favourite spots with fresh eyes, our tours offer the perfect mix of exploration and intimacy. Download the Stories Unseen app, pick a tour, and get ready for a date night that’s as unique as the two of you. Explore more, laugh more, and make your next date night one to remember with Stories Unseen.
- Introducing Sondra Stewart: Stories Unseen’s New Partner in Adelaide
We’re excited to introduce you to our incredible new partner in Adelaide, Sondra Stewart , the powerhouse behind South Australia Destination Management Co . If you haven’t heard of her yet, trust us, you’re about to! Sondra is not only a tourism veteran with years of experience in the industry, but she’s also a total legend when it comes to showcasing the best of South Australia. And yes, she’s responsible for getting our team to try the v ery unique frog cake beer – more on that later. Sondra’s expertise runs deep. Whether it’s designing epic itineraries for visitors or working with local businesses to create unforgettable experiences, Sondra knows exactly how to connect travellers to the heart and soul of South Australia. So, when we decided it was time to bring Stories Unseen to Adelaide, Sondra was the perfect person to partner with. She totally gets what we’re about – uncovering hidden gems and telling stories that are often overlooked – and she’s helping us take our tours to the next level. One of the first things we learned about Sondra? She’s not afraid to push us out of our comfort zone, in the best possible way. When she invited us to Adelaide for a taste-testing session, we were expecting some typical South Aussie delicacies, but instead, she introduced us to the wild world of frog cake beer . Yes, you read that right. It’s a thing, and if you’ve never had the pleasure (or maybe the shock) of trying it, just know it’s as quirky and iconic as Adelaide itself. Sondra insisted we give it a go, and, well, let’s just say it was an experience we won’t forget – much like working with her! Sondra’s enthusiasm for South Australia is contagious, and we’re beyond excited to collaborate on our upcoming Adelaide Firsts tour . With her deep knowledge of the region’s history, hidden spots, and vibrant culture, we’re creating something truly special for visitors. Whether you're new to Adelaide or think you know it like the back of your hand, Sondra’s insights and passion will help us uncover stories and experiences that even the locals might not know about. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Sondra on board as we expand our Stories Unseen adventures into South Australia. Her love for storytelling, combined with her unmatched industry knowledge, makes her the perfect partner to bring our vision of immersive, self-guided tours to life in Adelaide. So, keep an eye out for what’s coming – and maybe, just maybe, give frog cake beer a try while you’re at it (but don’t say we didn’t warn you!). Cheers to Sondra and the next exciting chapter of Stories Unseen in Adelaide!
- Why Perth's Murder and Macabre Tour is the Best Thing You Can Do This Halloween
It’s spooky season, and if you’re like us, that means it’s time to ditch the usual “scary” movie marathon and do something really spine-tingling. And guess what? We’ve got just the thing – P erth’s Murder and Macabre Tour ! It’s the perfect combo of creepy, hilarious, and a little bit weird, whether you're dragging your friends along or looking to score some major points on date night. This isn’t your average ghost tour with flickering flashlights and someone whispering "Did you hear that?" No, our tour is led by Lizzy , the virtual guide who’s equal parts history nerd and sarcastic queen of the macabre. And trust us, she knows *all* the gory details about Perth’s dark side. You’ll get the lowdown on Perth’s most gruesome crimes, shady characters, and enough bizarre facts to make you rethink walking alone at night (just kidding… but maybe not). Our team LOVES Halloween – like, we are borderline obsessed. We used to be called Dark Stry , after all, because we’ve always been into shining a light on the spookier, darker side of life (and death). There’s something about Halloween that just gets us excited – maybe it’s the costumes, maybe it’s the candy, or maybe it’s because we get to dive deep into Perth’s most chilling tales and call it "work." And if you’re into all things creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky, you're in for a treat (pun fully intended). We even did a collab with our fabulously theatrical friends at Tease Industries , where we straight-up recreated some of Perth’s most scandalous and murderous moments from history. Picture it: blood, drama, a little murder on the dance floor, and the perfect amount of sass. Because, honestly, what’s a little murder on your wedding day if not the most goth thing you could ever do? Or a bit of chaos on the dance floor? Let’s just say we had WAY too much fun with that one. And let’s be real – Halloween is the one time of year you can totally get away with this kind of madness, and no one bats an eye. Why is this the BEST idea for Halloween? Let’s break it down: 1. You’ll Actually Learn Something... While Screaming Lizzy doesn’t just tell you about murders – she makes it fun (yes, really!). Between her dry wit and eye-roll-worthy puns, you’ll forget you’re hearing about gruesome tales of the past. Plus, when’s the last time you learned *and* got your cardio in while running from imaginary murderers? Efficiency at its finest. 2. It’s Way Cooler Than Carving Pumpkins Let’s be real, we’ve all carved the same triangle-eyed jack-o'-lantern since childhood. Time to step it up. Imagine the thrill of walking through Perth’s spookiest spots with your friends or partner, trying not to jump at every creak in the distance while Lizzy calmly explains why that alleyway might not be as safe as it seems. Talk about bonding. 3. Date Night? Nailed It. Want to impress your partner? Forget dinner and a movie – take them on a **Murder and Macabre** date. Nothing says romance like tales of historic crime scenes! If you can survive learning about Perth’s grisliest tales together, you can survive anything (including that inevitable jump scare from a stray cat mid-tour). Plus, Lizzy’s commentary is bound to keep the mood light, so no one’s going home terrified... probably. 4. No Awkward Small Talk Whether it’s your friends or a new boo, small talk is the worst . But guess what? You won’t need any! Lizzy’s going to keep you so entertained that the only conversation you’ll need is “Did you just hear what she said?!” and “Should we, uh, not walk down this alley?” 5. Halloween Selfies = Sorted Let’s not pretend we’re not all here for the Instagram-worthy shots. Between the creepy settings, the dramatic shadows, and your terrified expressions, your Halloween post is going to be pure gold. Plus, if Lizzy were real, she’d 100% photobomb your pics with a deadpan face and an offhand comment about how “Instagram wasn’t the first thing to haunt Perth.” You’ll be Insta-famous in no time. So, What Are You Waiting For? This Halloween, ditch the basic haunted house and go for something with a bit more bite (pun totally intended). Whether you're trying to spook your friends, impress your date, or just do something different, Perth’s Murder and Macabre Tour with Lizzy is your ticket to a truly unforgettable (and laugh-out-loud) Halloween. Grab your ghost-hunting gear (aka your phone) and get ready for a spooky adventure you’ll be talking about long after Halloween is over. Just, uh, maybe leave the lights on when you get home. Happy Haunting!
- Meet Dave: Adelaide's Funniest (and Probably Hardest Working) Tour Guide!
Say hello to Dave, your new virtual tour guide on our Adelaide Firsts tour! Dave isn’t just your average history buff – he’s a town planner who’s way too excited about grids, greenery, and all the quirky "firsts" that make Adelaide, well... Adelaide. If you’ve ever wanted to dive deep into the city’s hidden gems but were worried about it getting too serious, don’t worry – Dave’s got you covered with his blend of fun facts and dad jokes. He’ll tell you everything from how Adelaide became the first planned city in Australia to why the River Torrens has more stories than the average history book (and probably more ducks). We’ve brought Dave on board because who better to guide you through Adelaide than someone who loves the city so much, he might just burst into song about its urban planning (don't worry, we haven’t let him do that... yet). So, lace up your walking shoes, get ready to explore Adelaide’s coolest "firsts," and let Dave show you a side of the city even locals will find surprising – all with a few laughs along the way! Trust us, you’re in for a grid time (Dave made us add that).
- Hello World!
We're thrilled to share the stories behind Stories Unseen , where the magic of storytelling meets the excitement of exploration! Whether you’re a local adventurer or a curious traveler, our self-guided tours are designed to help you discover the hidden gems and fascinating stories behind some of the most iconic locations in Western Australia and South Australia . Our journey began with a simple idea – to create experiences that go beyond the ordinary, allowing people to explore places on their own terms while uncovering stories that often remain untold. From wandering the vibrant streets of Perth to delving into the rich heritage of Adelaide, each tour offers something unique, created in partnership with passionate locals who know these places best. In fact, you might even learn things that surprise the locals themselves! Our team has created so many magical moments, and we’re super proud to share our passion for forgotten people and places with all kinds of explorers. Since 2022, we've been chasing golden hour, checking out happy hours, and digging through hundreds of history books. We’re always tweaking and testing something new to make sure travellers get the best possible experience. At Stories Unseen, we believe that travel is about connection – not just to the places you visit, but to the history, culture, and people that make them truly special. Our tours aren’t just about ticking off landmarks; they’re about immersing yourself in the narrative of each destination, discovering the lesser-known tales that bring it to life. So whether you’re looking to learn about the quirky 'firsts' of Adelaide or dive deep into Perth’s cultural evolution, we’ve got you covered. Our app puts the power of exploration in your hands, with carefully curated tours that make it easy to explore more at your own pace. Thank you for joining us on this journey – we can’t wait to help you see the world differently with Stories Unseen. Keep an eye on our blog for exciting updates, new tour releases, and plenty of insider tips!