In 1972, a long-haired David Macdonald stood at the back of a convenience store queue. Opposite, a billboard advised shopkeepers to allow those with crew cuts first service. He was in Singapore, gateway to the island of Borneo, the destination for his Oxford University Expedition in search of Proboscis Monkeys and other creatures.

In 2022, the Oxford University Exploration Club is delighted to welcome Professor David Macdonald - now celebrated author, documentary maker and conservation biologist - to reflect on Oxford expeditions of 50 years ago, in conversation with James Kempton. 

This Explorer's Night will also exhibit publicly unseen OUEC archive material, dating back to 1928. Photos, logbooks, route maps, and expedition reports - curated by Carla Fuenteslópez - will be enjoyed alongside drinks and canapés provided by Vaults and Gardens.

Expect convivial conversation throughout, inspiration for your own expeditions, and a celebration of another fantastic year of Exploration.

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Tickets for all OUEC members - both current students and alumni - are subsidised, and can be purchased here.