In the early 1970s, the town of Shepparton, nestled in the heart of Victoria, Australia, recognized a critical gap in its community services. There was a noticeable absence of an organized group specifically dedicated to conducting search and rescue operations—a void that became the catalyst for the formation of the Shepparton Search & Rescue Squad (SSRS). 

The conversation around establishing a specialized rescue squad began in earnest in 1971. The founding members of SSRS, realizing the pressing need for such a service, proposed the idea to the community and other emergency services. The concept was met with immediate and enthusiastic support, setting the stage for a formalized operation. 

A year later, the Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad Inc. was officially registered, marking a pivotal moment in its history. This formal recognition was the first step towards operational readiness and community engagement. 

By 1973, the newly formed squad started to implement innovative fundraising strategies. One such initiative was the acquisition of a small motorized train from Uncle Bob's Club, a charity organization. This purchase showcased SSRS's early commitment to raising funds creatively to support their vital operations. 

The squad's capabilities were put to a significant test in 1974 when Shepparton experienced severe flooding, with water levels peaking at 12.09 meters. The SSRS members were integral to the emergency response, working tirelessly on the ground to assist affected residents and coordinate with other emergency services. 

The following year, SSRS built its first rescue vehicle, primarily used for diving and recovery operations. This vehicle was a critical addition to their resources, enabling more specialized responses to emergencies involving water. 

The squad continued to expand its fleet in 1976 with the purchase of a rescue boat and an accompanying outboard motor and trailer. This investment significantly enhanced the SSRS's ability to conduct water-based rescue operations more effectively. 

Building on their momentum, SSRS constructed a second rescue vehicle in 1977. This new asset was equipped to handle a broader range of emergency situations, including road accident rescues, general rescue operations, and continued support for dive and recovery missions

1978 was a landmark year for the SSRS with two major acquisitions. Firstly, they secured a HURST "Jaws of Life"—the first of its kind in regional Australia. Costing over $8,500, this tool significantly enhanced the squad’s capability to extricate victims from severely damaged vehicles. Secondly, the squad implemented a radio paging system, streamlining communication and improving response times during emergencies.