Is this the perfect meet-cute moment? A singles treasure hunt is coming

Posted on 22 May, 2024

It sounds like something out of a Hallmark movie – a treasure hunt designed specifically for single people to uncover some hidden gems.

And by gems, we mean the sparkling joy of new companionship (and not just the romantic kind).

On Saturday 1 June, The Canberra Treasure Hunt by the Canberra Social Singles Group will see you don a detective’s hat, and spend a fun-filled afternoon uncovering hidden treasures and solving clues that have been scattered throughout the city.

Ending at Kingpin (where the winners will be announced and prizes given out), it promises to be awkward, comical, and super cute – AKA all of the key ingredients for the perfect meet-cute moment. And, according to Canberra Social Singles founder Kali Dalton, it’s all about fun, laughter, a bit of friendly competition and (hopefully) making friends.

“When you have to work towards something with a common goal, I think you learn a lot about yourself and you learn a lot about other people as well,” she says.

“It’s a really fun way to get to know people rather than sitting down at a dinner where you have to come up with conversation – that can be a bit awkward and intimidating for some people… it’s just going to be a lot of hilarious fun, in all honesty!”

Running the Canberra Social Singles Group for over three years, Kali knows the value of making new connections. Evacuating to Canberra during the 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires from Bega (and deciding to stay here), Kali and her family lived in a Canberra hotel room for months while the COVID-19 pandemic locked down the country.

Joining various Facebook groups to meet some new people, Kali started the Canberra Social Singles Group after she struggled to find a social group that felt safe, respectful, and fun.

“It’s not a dating group, even though a lot of people do hook up and date because of it,” she explains.

“It’s more a place for singles who want to go to the movies and don’t have anyone to go with…it’s an opportunity for singles to get out there, meet other people, and do activities they might not have otherwise done because they don’t have anyone to go with,”

“There’s a lot of friendships formed, couples have bought houses and had babies, but for the most part, it’s really about getting out and socialising.”

Aiming to connect people of all ages and from all walks of life, The Canberra Treasure Hunt is restricted to single people only. Upon arrival at 3.30 pm, the treasure hunters will be split into teams of five to eight people and sent on their merry way to solve clues, complete team challenges, and win prizes.

Usually running various events throughout the year (ranging from bowling to dinners to a free-match-making night), this is the first treasure hunt Kali has organised.

Ideal for singles aged in their 20s to 60s, from solving riddles to taking photos, she says the challenges on the day will be simple, effective, and fun – especially because several local businesses have also gotten involved, including the LEGO Store, Good Games, King O’Malley’s and Kingpin.

Costing just $15 to participate (which also covers a session singing your heart out in the Kingpin karaoke booth and a few jugs at King O’Malley’s), all of the money raised goes towards the event itself. And in the lead-up to the big day, Kali is very excited to meet some new people and help them make lasting connections.

And for those who are feeling a touch nervous about attending?

“Just get involved! A lot of people feel anxious about their first meeting when they first attend. Everyone tells me they’re all filled with anxiety before coming, and most people tell me later that they can’t believe how casual it was and how welcoming it was,” Kali says.

“We don’t allow sexism, racism, gender bashing, or any of that and it creates a really warm environment for people. They often regret not getting involved sooner.”

“I can’t wait! I hope it’s as good as I think it’s going to be.”