Creative Corner – Ian Trevaskis

Local Author Ian Trevaskis Benefits from Unlocked Grant for Novel “Whispering Guns”

Towong writer Ian Trevaskis is using his UNLOCKED25 grant money to attend Varuna, the National Writer’s House in Katoomba to continue work on his next novel – Whispering Guns, set in 1919 at Beechworth’s Hospital for the Insane.

Acclaimed Towong author Ian Trevaskis has utilised an Unlocked grant, facilitated by Murray Arts, to advance his compelling new novel, Whispering Guns. The grant supported Trevaskis to undertake a focused writing residency at Varuna, the National Writers’ House in Katoomba.

Inspired by a historical tour of Beechworth’s Hospital for the Insane, Trevaskis discovered the hospital’s connection to World War I veterans, sparking his narrative. “The mention that the hospital had once housed some WW1 veterans piqued my interest,” said Trevaskis, who is exploring the story of Archie Spiller, a fictional young soldier battling shell shock and amnesia in 1920.

The title Whispering Guns references lines from Siegfried Sassoon’s poignant 1918 poem, Repression of War Experience, highlighting the lingering psychological trauma of war.

Reflecting on his productive week at Varuna, Trevaskis emphasised the unique value of this creative sanctuary: “Varuna is a place with minimal distractions, where writers can connect and share their writing and processes.” By week’s end, Trevaskis had outlined over 20 chapters and written approximately 5000 words, an achievement he says would have “taken up to six months” without the grant.

Trevaskis stressed the importance of such grants for regional artists, encouraging emerging writers to seek these opportunities. “Small grants like these are invaluable, particularly for creators who might not otherwise have the financial means,” he noted.

Ian Trevaskis’s journey, bolstered by the Unlocked grant, exemplifies the profound impact targeted financial support can have on regional creative communities.

For further details on Ian Trevaskis and his writing journey, visit: www.iantrevaskis.com.au.

*UNLOCKED is a professional development microgrant program proudly delivered by Murray Arts, designed to empower regional creatives by supporting their career growth. Through small yet impactful grants, UNLOCKED helps artists access training, mentorship, workshops, and other opportunities that enhance their skills and open new pathways. The program is tailored to respond to the unique needs of our creative community, recognising that even modest financial support can have a significant impact. Whether it’s funding to attend a course, develop a project, or gain industry insights, UNLOCKED aims to nurture creative potential and strengthen the sustainability of arts practice in our region.