Hi Jonesee. I don't have any specific advice for your area but could see that nobody had replied. You will have most of your questions answered when you get your lessons, but as a rough guide for your weight and based on what I know of Melbourne conditions, a 12m kite would be suitable. You'll want a smaller kite when your up and going, but a 12 is a good allround size to have and bigger more stable kites are better to learn on. In regards to cost, most people don't spend too much at first as they often upgrade when they know what they're doing and see what sort of kite will suit. That said, I know guys who went straight out and bought new or near new, quality kites that they still use a few years down the track. Boards can be a bit trickier as bigger boards certainly help you get up and going, but you will want to drop down a bit when experienced. If you want a decent all-purpose board that you can learn on and still ride for years, for your weight you could go for something around 134-138cm. I'd suggest having a few lessons before splashing the cash, this sport has a huge drop out rate.

give cris at the kite republic a call , u can do a course them u get whatever u pay on the course discounted on your equipment...its a sweet deal and the guys are great at the shop i can only say good thinks about the kite republic crew they have been pretty professional since when i start kitesurfing , plus its a really nice community to hang out...

12m kite will be your staple kite.

definitely get lessons before buying any kites. When buying second hand definitely look at kites with someone more experienced because they will know where to look for wear and tear on a kite which a newbie could miss.

In saying that - go use the training kite i gave you go do your lessons and then we can talk about kites