Successful funding recipients gathered for the City's annual Creative Communities Grant Program presentation, which was held at Leopold Community Hub.
Among the appreciative crowd were representatives from the 12 festivals and more than 20 arts projects supported by the initiative this year.
Cr Trent Sullivan addressed the group of more than 50 people before fellow Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason handed out certificates.
The evening also featured showcases of previous grant recipients.
Emma Watson of Greater Geelong Creative Inc shared radio plays for the vision impaired, while Margaret Griffith of Barwon Estuary Project demonstrated an innovative boardgame.
The ceremony also heard from Dr Rea Dennis of Deakin University and Cam Begg of the expanding Two Worlds Festival.
