The Australian Milking Zebu was developed by the CSIRO in the mid-1950's. The project was fuelled by a desire to develop a tick-tolerant dairy breed that could perform well in hot and humid conditions. Many breeds have influenced its development including the Pakistani Sahiwal, Jersey, Red Sindhi, Illawarra, Guernsey and Holstein-Friesian. The final outcome has been the result of rigid interbreeding and selection processes.
Mature purebred AMZ cows can produce around 2,700 litres of milk per lactation, while AMZ cross Friesian cows can produce even larger amounts. Their milk is known for its superior quality and high levels of protein. The body type and colouring of the Australian Milking Zebu resembles that of Jersey breed. Their loose skin and tick resistance reflects the infusion of Sahiwal and Red Sindhi bloodlines.
The AMZ has no formal association but is a distinctly Australian breed of cattle.
