Austin, Manitoba is a charming unincorporated community recognized as a local urban district in western Manitoba. Nestled on the Trans-Canada Highway, it is approximately 110 km (68 mi) west of Winnipeg. Austin is a part of the Municipality of North Norfolk and is a unique blend of flat plains and low wooded hills.
Austin, Manitoba is situated at the western edge of the table-flat Portage Plains. To the south and west, it is surrounded by miles of low wooded hills known as the Carberry sandhills. This unique landscape offers a picturesque setting for residents and visitors alike.
The biggest attraction in Austin, Manitoba is the annual rodeo and Threshermen's Reunion. This event is held at the Manitoba Agricultural Museum during the last four business days of July. It is a celebration of the community's agricultural roots and a highlight of the summer season.
Austin received its name in 1881 from the Marquis of Lorne, then Governor General of Canada. This naming occurred during his western tour amidst the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The area saw an influx of Plautdietsch-speaking immigrants of Mennonite denomination, adding to the cultural diversity of Austin, Manitoba.
Austin, Manitoba is home to an elementary school, a postal office, a curling/hockey rink, two grocery stores, and a credit union. One of the main highlights for the community is the Austin Amateur Hockey League. Founded in 2011 with 8 teams, the league now boasts 12 teams vying for the coveted Corner Cup each season.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Austin had a population of 415 living in 189 of its 214 total private dwellings. This represented a slight decrease of -1.7% from its 2016 population of 422. With a land area of 1.9 km2 (0.73 sq mi), Austin had a population density of 218.4/km2 (565.7/sq mi) in 2021.
