I am in the process of purchasing my first kite boarding kit including a wetsuit to get me through winter.
I am interested in people's opinion on where the best place would be to buy gear.

The places I have been I have told I am starting kiting at the wrong time of year and should wait till August to buy gear when new season gear comes in. But frankly I have been out on the water a couple of times (i have been hiring gear to date) and am hooked already so keen to keep getting out there!

Any names of shops around Melbourne or even along the Peninsula would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers

Yep, as Katz said, the only concern about winter kiting is that the conditions can change quickly and get a bit wild. Make sure you check the forecast, kite with others, have a small enough kite, and if you see a gnarly line of dark cloud approaching, either head to the beach and land, or if it's almost upon you, wait it out on the water with your kite just above the water at the edge of the window.

Know your safety system and practise flagging your kite at least once on the beach (with plenty of room downwind) so you know what to expect. Too many people fail to flag when stuff starts going wrong and thereby risk more harm to themselves, their gear, and passers by.

No need to wait for 2014 gear. Any beginner/all-rounder kites from the major brands from the past 3 years will be fine. If you're buying more than one kite I suggest going for the same make and model so the handling characteristics and safety systems will be the same.

Ozone Catalysts are an excellent choice as a beginner friendly all-rounder that will also take you to more advanced levels (I'm sponsored and I ride Catalysts). SHQ can sort you out with these and whatever else you may need.