Anzac, Alberta is a charming hamlet nestled in the northern part of Alberta, Canada. It is situated within the Regional Municipality (RM) of Wood Buffalo, along the east shore of Gregoire Lake. The hamlet is conveniently located on Highway 881, approximately 36 kilometres southeast of Fort McMurray.
Anzac holds a unique place in history. It was named in honour of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps during World War I. This was during the construction of the Alberta and Great Waterways Railway from Carbondale to Waterways.
Originally, the hamlet was named after Willow Lake, the previous name of Gregoire Lake. The community was primarily composed of non-status or non-treaty Cree, whose ancestors had migrated to the Athabasca Basin area from what was to become northern Manitoba. This migration led to the displacement of the original Beaver and Chipewyan occupants of the area.
During World War II, a road was built from the rail siding to service and construct a US Army base on Stoney Mountain. The area has since seen significant growth, mirroring that of Fort McMurray and the oil industry. However, the hamlet faced a significant challenge in 2016 when it was ordered to be evacuated due to the spread of the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Anzac had a population of 506 living in 190 of its 256 total private dwellings. This represented a change of -7.7% from its 2016 population of 548. With a land area of 8.57 km2, it had a population density of 59.0/km2 in 2021.
The 2018 municipal census conducted by the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo reported a population of 659, an increase from its 2015 municipal census population count of 606. As a designated place in the 2016 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Anzac had a population of 548 living in 197 of its 286 total private dwellings. This was a change of -6.3% from its 2011 population of 585. With a land area of 8.56 km2, it had a population density of 64.0/km2 in 2016.
Anzac, Alberta is a community with a rich history and a vibrant present. Its growth and resilience are a testament to the spirit of its inhabitants. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for a peaceful place to call home, Anzac, Alberta has something to offer.
