Last year, Hobsons Bay Council and centre management, Leisure Management Services, won a landmark ruling to hold women-only swimming sessions during normal business hours.

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal granted a three-year exemption under the Equal Opportunity Act, enabling the pool to be closed to men between 7.30pm and 9.30pm on Fridays.

Following a successful trial at the Mason Street centre, women-only swimming will resume on March 26.

Australian Arabic Women's Group president Laila Houli said that with the popularity of the sessions, it was unfair for her organisation to foot the bill.

The cost to the group will rise by $100 a week this season.

"We have to pay $450 a week from our pocket," Ms Houli said.

"Some women go to the desk and they charge them there. They let them come in with our group and they don't cut money from our payment. People don't know we have private membership."

She said the group was staffed by volunteers and did not operate for profit. "The Muslim community here trusts our women's group, elderly women like us, to watch the girls here," Ms Houli said.

Aquatic manager Ben Meilak said the $450 would cover staffing and other costs.

He said each session attracted an average of about 150 females, predominantly Muslim.

"'It is aimed at all women in the community, but I'd say 90-95per cent are the Muslim women community," Mr Meilak said.

"We do get ladies from all different nationalities, groups and backgrounds coming in to enjoy it."

■The Australian Arabic Women's Group is looking for members and sponsors. Membership costs $45 for adults and $35 for children. All females welcome.

Details: Laila Houli, 0411059130.