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Farina played an important role as a depot for the construction of the Overland Telegraph Line. The tiny settlement was home to many Afghans and their camels. These ships of the desert ensured the laying of the line was successful, for in such rough, dry terrain, they carried on their work, seemingly unphased. Which was more than you can say for the horses of the construction party. Spooked by the presence of the camels, they had to be continually calmed- adding to the workload of their handlers - who were under very strict instructions to care for their livestock.

The official instructions read: 'No horse is on any account to be struck on the head or legs, nor punished severely except for positive vice. Teamsters and others must remember that more is to be done by kindness and by humoring horses, than by blows and that the safety of the party may depend upon keeping the horses in good working order. They must, therefore be very particular in looking after them, and keeping them in good condition. The same remarks apply to bullocks.'