General News
26 July, 2026
Woomelang inventor hopes to silence snoring
A Woomelang couple's dream of a night free of snoring has grown into a new business venture. What started as an effort to improve sleep has become a 15-year project to develop an anti-snoring device.
Frustrated by his wife Deb’s snoring, Phil Jobson considered a simple solution while working in his shed: what if she could hear herself snore?
“All I wanted to do was stop her snoring,” he said.
His initial prototype was assembled from available materials. Phil modified a swimmer’s nose clip by adding a small microphone, connecting it to a spy unit and earphones.
When Deb used the device, the effect was immediate.
“She sort of snored, and then she stopped,” he said.
After a few interruptions, her snoring ceased for the remainder of the night.
The silence was so complete that Mr Jobson briefly feared something was wrong when he checked the bedroom.
Fortunately, Deb stirred, marking the beginning of their invention journey.
The couple then began exploring the potential of their idea.
They presented early prototypes, constructed from basic components, to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Mr Jobson reported receiving positive feedback, but formal trials required prior testing elsewhere.
Limited funding and support slowed progress.
The concept advanced with assistance from family, patent guidance, and multiple redesigns.
To gauge interest, the couple advertised for local volunteers to trial the device and received an overwhelming response.
“When I was finishing work at night, I’d have tea, a quick shower, drive up to Donald and fit devices all evening,” he said.
The design continued to evolve, as early versions were impractical and often shifted out of place during sleep.
Mr Jobson eventually adopted a U-shaped design for greater stability.
With his son's assistance, he traveled to the Dandenongs so a designer could create a digital concept drawing.
The product progressed to manufacturing. The current version is worn securely around the ears and includes interchangeable ear pieces for different users.
The device operates on a small battery and includes safety features to prevent children from accessing or swallowing it.
Mr Jobson described the process as long, complex, and sometimes frustrating.
However, the idea that began in a shed after many sleepless nights continues to progress.
Learn more by visiting snorefree.com.au.