Yep - my gf stepped in and helped. She isnt that experienced either, but does know how to catch and launch a kite - thanks to my regular training
I chatted to the guy briefly afterwards and suggested that a 12m kite for a novice in those wind conditions was not appropriate. I was on a 10m and weigh around 90kg.
From the sounds of it the kite was originally lauched somewhat downwind and on a gusty wind day, that spells trouble.
Altona lauch near the pier is a dangerous spot for the inexperienced as there is little margin for error with nearby road and power lines.
I also would recommend that your wife not launch kites - even to be helpful - easier in hindsight, but a lesson learnt.
I landed your 13m Fuel later in the evening...
Cheers
Tom