Dave, the Rebel can be a good choice for a beginner kite, provided you have a great level of confidence in your flying already (not too nervous). The Rebel can develop a generous amount of power even in moderate winds and is not as forgiving as other models of kites. I would also recommend making two adjustments for the early stages of your progression if you get this kite, 1) shorten the bar length (slows the kite's turning speed) and 2) adjust the back line bridle the knot closest to the kite to soften the power development (only on 2012 Rebels). Read the manual or ask for pro advice.

I wouldn't go any bigger than 12m, especially for a Rebel. Even at 95 kg you should consider an 11m Rebel for winds from 18-25 knots (ideal for beginning). If you get the 12m, you would want to reconsider going out in anything at or above 25 knots, at least until you get to an intermediate level, and even then it would be hard to actually enjoy yourself in 25-30 knots on a 12m Rebel. With experience you'll be able to enjoy an 11m Rebel in winds as light at 15-18 knots and up to 25-30.

You should avoid getting a larger kite to begin with and also avoid going out in anything less than 15 knots, ideally even 18 knots as a minimum. I've witnessed and helped rescue a fair amount of beginners on Rebels in 12-15 knots days as they are inexperienced in light wind flying and relaunching, even with 12 or 14m kites...

Happy shopping!

Yo Dave the are plenty of good beginner kites out there,the rebels a nice kite,but 5 lines take a touch more finess to relaunch,and can get a bit messy if wrapped around the kite,but have a better safety in my view, if you were a mate id be recommending the ozone catalyst,I've been giving a few local kids lessons with mine and they are a great allround kite, good luck

Welcome to kite surfing. You are going to LOVE it.
I just recently watched Into The Air DVD and Blowing Wind. Both excellent DVDs and highlight the dangers but more importantly the beauty and power of kite surfing. I highly recommend them and a good way to show off the possibilities to your partner or friends, so that you don't get that funny 'youre going to a strip club' look!
In terms of equipment, less is more. Go for four line kites, which are the norm. Yeah 5th lines are 'safer' but they do have other risks as mentioned above. I love the Mystic harness. It's light and snuggly. Just make sure what ever you get, you are not pushed to a particular brand and that it fits you 100%. enjoy!