Become a Literary Legend

Australian authors face huge challenges making a living from their work. Simply finding time and space to write can be impossible for some. Yet, the transformative power of the written word matters more than ever. How can you help?

Literary Legends work with Varuna to offer mentorship, residencies, masterclasses and pathways to publication for Australian authors. As a Literary Legend, you’ll be at the heart of Varuna’s programs. You’ll receive a regular newsletter about the impact of your contributions, as well as priority access to Varuna’s events, including the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival and intimate reading salons with our fellowship recipients.

From $10 a month, you can join a growing group of visionary people who, like you, are committed to supporting Australian literature.

What your money can do

Your support allows us to ensure Varuna’s residencies and programs are accessible to all, offering even more writers a chance to experience that Varuna magic. Your donations will help us to deliver residencies, mentorship, online masterclasses, and our annual celebration of literature, the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival.

If you are interested in making a larger contribution towards a specific fellowship or program, please get in touch.

$50 A MONTH


Provides a week’s fellowship for a writer-in-residence at Varuna in one of our private writing studios.

$30 A MONTH


Pays fellowship or travel expenses for a writer experiencing financial hardship, provided through the Varuna Equity Fund.

$10 A MONTH


Pays for a writer to have a one-on-one with a Varuna mentor, skilled in supporting all residents, emerging to established.


The Eleanor Dark Foundation is a registered charity, and your donation is tax deductible.

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Westwords Program Writers 2019

Contribute to our Equity Fund with a one-off donation

The Varuna Equity Fund allows writers experiencing financial hardship to waive application fees and fellowship expenses, and receive a travel subsidy to attend their residency, a vital part of access and inclusion at Varuna.

For many authors, the Equity Fund is what allows them to attend Varuna and complete their manuscript.

LITERARY LEGEND $350 DONATION

LITERARY LEGEND $125 DONATION

LITERARY LEGEND $50 DONATION

LITERARY LEGEND CUSTOM DONATION


The Eleanor Dark Foundation is a registered charity, and your donation is tax deductible.