A critical view of history is vital to identity, writes Jake Elson, 20, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, who laments that Western Australians know too little about their complex past. There is a famous line from Bob Marley’s “Buffalo Soldier”: ‘If you know your history, then you would know where you’re coming from. …

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Norfolk Islanders are refusing to change their national anthem in what Jake Elson, 20, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, describes as a clash between official rules and cultural tradition. It’s another saga of Norfolk Island’s long and often tumultuous history. Recently the Australian-appointed administrator, Mr. Gary Hardgrave, wrote to the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly requesting it …

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A hostage-taking in Sydney shook Australia’s sense of security, writes Jake Elson, 20, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, but the response has been respect for quiet heroism and a demonstration of the country’s tolerance. Shocked, devastated and infuriated. That is how I feel about the Sydney hostage crisis only a few days back. Shocked, because …

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Women’s football in England has a tumultuous history, writes Jake Elson, 20, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, but is now gaining the respect of fans and officials. Several months ago, 55,000 supporters watched England lose 3-0 to Germany at Wembley. Generally, this is the usual story. However, this game was significant. It was …

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Western Australia has earned an unwanted reputation for its drug problem, writes Jake Elson, 20, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia. Education is part of the effort to solve the problem. It’s renowned across the continent for its unbridled summer sunshine, relaxed attitude and world famous Margaret River wineries. Yet lift up that veneer, …

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Queensland voters delivered a shocking upset in the recent election, writes Jake Elson, 21, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, as he examines politics and factors behind the balloting. Shocked, surprised, stunned. These are but a few words that can describe what has happened in Queensland over the last month. After the disastrous election …

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Feminism is a concept that has become divisive, writes Jake Elson, 21, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, who argues the need to support feminism that includes gender equality. In social circles across the world, feminism has become a dirty word. Once the banner for the push for equality, many now view it erroneously as an …

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Voter apathy and disengagement are significant threats to democracy, writes Jake Elson, 21, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, as he urges youth to take an active role in politics. The free and democratic world is facing what has to be its greatest danger in recent years. It isn’t Communism, nor is it fascism. Rather, …

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All eyes in Australia are on a fierce competition that strikes the heart of regional loyalties, writes Jake Elson, 21, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, as the nation readies for the final round in a storied rugby series. This is without a doubt the biggest sporting event on the Australian sporting Calendar. Queensland …

“Which State is yours? Yes, It’s Origin time!” Read More »