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Our Story

a grassroots movement health promotion charity

Our story was born out of frustration and a dream.

The Covid 19 pandemic shone a light on the many ills plaguing humanity and the environment. While it is impossible to fix all of society’s deficiencies at the same time, there is the urgency to begin somewhere.

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A group of five like-minded individuals in Melbourne banded together to form and incorporate ‘Bags for Earth & Science Incorporated’. This is a grassroots movement with dual interconnected purposes, the environment and medical science (Cancer research).

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The environment was being detrimentally impacted by the excesses of mankind, particularly the use of plastic bags in everyday life. During the Covid 19 pandemic, particularly during the lockdown periods, there was an increase in use of plastic bags and other plastic waste used in fast food. Much of the plastic waste would eventually make its way to our waterways, rivers and oceans, poisoning life within them. Getting rid of plastic shopping bags would go a long way to repairing some of the damage already caused.

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The Covid pandemic also had a negative impact on research, particularly that undertaken by universities. Much of the research was being funded by the full fee-paying overseas students. The pandemic had shut the door on the students, leaving the universities reliant on public government funding or private donations. The pandemic and lockdowns had all but drained public funds, who struggled to maintain the health system and prevent a total collapse.

 

Recognizing that the funding needs would always be an issue for most research institutions, and that plastic bag use required a drastic change in people’s habits, the group of Five Founding Committee members established a mission with a dual purpose:

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  • The first, to eradicate the use of all plastic bags and replace with environmentally friendly tote bags made from natural fabrics (cotton, canvas, hessian and jute), and

  • The second, to raise funds in perpetuity for science (medical research) using tote bags with the ‘Bags for Earth & Science Inc’ logo, and any other fundraising means.

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Meet The Team

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Leo A Eliades

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Medical Scientist, Businessman, President

Leo is a passionate online entrepreneur with a deep love for achievement and success. Family and a commitment to natural health serve as his anchors and his personal journey focuses on the pursuit of balance in all areas of life.
Originally from a medical science background, Leo became disheartened by the lack of support within the medical field which led him to embrace the challenge of entrepreneurship. This gave birth to BoostCeuticals, a dietary supplements brand in the USA that aligns with his values and positively contributes to the well-being of others.
Recently, Leo has taken on the role of President at Bags for Earth and Science Inc, which provides him a philanthropic opportunity to give back to the community, again promoting better health for those in need while also addressing the needs of our environment. No matter your purpose, Leo believes everything worth anything begins with good health!

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Betty Coracas

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Author/Artist, Treasurer, Assistant Secretary

Betty Coracas is an Author and Artist who lives in Melbourne with her husband and Shih Tsu, King Leo. She has authored 4 adult books, WW2 novel, ‘Alien in Paris’, crime thriller, ‘Stolen’, 15th century historical novel, ‘Caterina the Last Queen of Cyprus’, and memoir, ‘A Rebel’s Redemption’. Soon to be published is memoir, ‘The Providential Portrait of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch’, about her unique friendship with Australian philanthropist Dame Elisabeth Murdoch. She has also written and illustrated children’s books and has twice entered the prestigious Archibald portrait awards.

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Coral Thomas

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Functions organiser, Events Manager

Coral’s vibrant, bubbly personality was perfect for her role as Events Manager for Bags for Earth & Science Inc. Having worked in an administrative capacity for several years, and assisting her family in the hospitality industry, she was often proactively engaged in fundraising for the Greek Cypriot Community events. Using her business, administration, and entrepreneurial skills, she established her own successful business. When her cousin’s 34-year-old son was diagnosed with Brain Cancer, she applied her business acumen skills and hospitality knowledge to organise a highly successful fund-raising function. Together with her fellow Committee members, Coral has eagerly applied herself to her new role as Events Manager with devotion and determination to succeed in the dual purpose for which Bags for Earth & Science was incorporated as a charity.

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Maria La Torre

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Designer and Educator, Vice-President

Maria is an accomplished designer and educator with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to merging creativity with innovation. Her passion for design and education is enriched by a profound appreciation for culture and a love for the outdoors and all creatures. Always eager to broaden her knowledge, Maria has a keen interest in advancements in the medical field, believing that collaboration among creative minds can drive significant progress. Currently, she is excited to be a part of Bags for Earth and Science Inc, where she strives to contribute to transformative projects that positively impact individuals’ lives. Maria actively advocates for the importance of medical trials and encourages support for initiatives that promote the well-being of all.

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Helen Paleologos

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Consultant, Secretary​

Helen’s motto, ’be kind and always believe in the power of your thoughts’, reflects her optimistic outlook and dedication to fostering positivity. Her professional and personal life embody a beautiful balance, emphasising the importance of relationships and continuous learning. She appreciates moments shared with her family and friends, highlighting her value of connection and love. Her guiding principle of kindness has enhanced not only her own life, but it has served as a beacon of inspiration for those around her as she encourages them to embrace kindness and positivity. Sharing the same values as her fellow Committee members, Helen has embraced her Secretary’s role with passion and devotion, and determination to achieve the dual purpose for which Bags for Earth & Science Inc was created.

About Us

​​Bags for Earth and Science Incorporated No: A0123857B

Registered as a Health Promotion Charity with the Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC) CRM:001260725383
 

Endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) 1.1.6        

ABN: 44 296 898 486

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