6 minute read
In Their Elements
In Their Elements
From the wilderness to the workshop, two brothers with a soft spot for rocks take two very different paths
Written by Nikita Blom and Kloe Phelan
Growing up, brothers Jon ’83 and Ben ‘90 Hodges were surrounded by Queensland’s wilderness, with an abundance of time for exploration and play. Today, Jon is a beloved fixture on the BGS Outdoor Education team, having worked as both a teacher and Director of the program, and now as a groundsman. Considered a veteran and industry leader in the field of outdoor education, Jon is widely acknowledged for his respect for land, cultural awareness and conservation efforts.
Meanwhile, Ben happily divides his time between his personal project and home studio —Ben Blue Jewellery— and working with BrownHaus at their immersive bespoke jewellery studio which recently opened in Newstead.
Mum didn’t want her kids to pursue something mundane, boring, or just to pay the bills. - Ben Hodges
In the early days, an age gap of nearly seven-years saw Jon and Ben pass like ships in the night for most of their school years. However, there was always a closeness, a tether of trust that reminded Ben of his brother’s protective, energetic spirit, and that reminded Jon of his brother’s considered, creative soul.
“[Jon’s] too humble to admit it, but he was my most significant mentor,” Ben says, reflecting on their relationship.
Their mother, Jennifer Hodges reinforced the notion that good opportunities often came from a good education and worked tirelessly to ensure her sons had a chance at a Grammar education.
“Mum didn’t want her kids to pursue something mundane, boring, or just to pay the bills,” Ben said. “She was a very special lady. Fierce in some ways and fiercely loving in every other way,” Jon agrees.
While healthy competition spurred success in their pursuits, their interests saw them take different routes after graduating from BGS.
“I can’t sit still for five minutes, so I have huge respect for my brother, who can focus on minute details for hours on end,” Jon shared, when discussing their contrasting careers.
“Anyone will tell you I was way more interested in getting outside - running onto the oval with the First XV and heading out to Pepperina Hill were my favourite memories.”
It comes as no surprise that when an offer to join the Outdoor Education program at BGS came from his friend and mentor, Jim Johnson, Jon accepted his “dream job” without hesitation.
I can’t sit still for five minutes and have huge respect for my brother, who can focus on minute details for hours on end. - Jon Hodges
Having spent time as the Director of Outdoor Education at St Joseph’s and Gregory Terrace, as well as at Maroon Education Centre, Jon’s love of the BGS Outdoor Education program remains. “I was always grateful for the way Grammar values outdoor education. It really is the best program out there and a privilege to be a part of each day.”
Jon maintains a deep connection to the purpose of Pepperina Hill, saying “It is an incredible spot to learn at. We are very fortunate to be connected to and endorsed by Indigenous Elder, Uncle Paul Gordon, and some of the local Ugarapul people out at Pepperina Hill.”
“I am grateful for Uncle Paul’s input on cultural matters,” Jon shares. “I think it is our duty to continue enabling people to connect with the land around them and do something that improves sustainability.”
Beyond BGS, you’ll find Jon on one of his many thrill-seeking pursuits which includes sea kayaking unsupported across the Bass Strait, completing a 300km descent through the remote Katun River in the heart of Siberia, or competing in the Race to Alaska—a 750 nautical mile boat race—with no motor, to name just a few.
Don’t live your life vicariously through other people’s adventures on your screen. Put your phone down and go do it. - Jon Hodges
Currently campervanning through Northern Australia with his wife on the last leg of his long service leave, Jon leaves us a valuable reminder.
“Don’t live your life vicariously through other people’s adventures on your screen. Put your phone down and go do it.”
Spending less time in the mountains and more time engrossed in creating and experimenting, Ben’s interests skewed more towards science and the arts. His fascination with melting points, metal manipulation and executing elaborate illustrations at school meant he was often more still and solitary.
After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Gold and Silversmithing from Queensland College of Art, Ben struggled to find work in Brisbane’s sparse jewellery market of the late ‘90s. Despite his willingness to start from scratch, he was told bluntly that his formal training made him unemployable - a harsh blow that revealed the gap between academic learning and industry expectations.
Following a visiting family member’s suggestion, Ben flew to London for a break. Captivated by the city, he wandered into Hatton Garden’s historic jewellery district where a handwritten noticeboard ad led to his first jeweller’s job the very next day.
What was intended as a “break” quickly became three years and one steep learning curve. Under the wing of a fast-paced crew of wholesale jewellers with attitude, Ben had to pick up his pace and adapt in his new environment.
“These guys were rough around the edges. Great jewellers and good hearts, but the work was often kept secret,” he said.
“One of the few clients we did know we were working for though was Ringo Starr, from The Beatles. It was a gaudy ring with every different type of precious gem on it you could imagine.”
Living off a modest apprentice wage and sharing a cramped bed-sit in Marble Arch, Ben surprised himself by staying in London for several more years. With an exceptional eye for detail and a dedication to his craft, Ben began quietly building a name for himself.
Returning to Brisbane, he spent 13 years with Hardy Brothers, working under Stuart Bishop—son of Wallace Bishop— specialising in VIP clientele. In 2015, the Bishop family invited him to design a piece for the Harper’s Bazaar Design Awards. His creation, an 18-carat white gold headpiece set with dozens of diamonds, was named a top-three finalist in the ‘runway’ category.
Now equipped with 30 years of experience, Ben is recognised as one of Australia’s leading jewellers.
From the wilds of Pepperina Hill to the ateliers of London, Jon and Ben Hodges show that pursuing passions can become careers, and the world rewards those bold enough to follow their curiosity.
[Jon’s] too humble to admit it, but he was my most significant mentor. - Ben Hodges
