I'm heading there for the first time in a few weeks and just wanted to get tips on where to kite, where to stay, and whether I should bring gear vs rent?

I've got no real preference, I enjoy smaller waves and twin tip riding, and just learned to foil (still working on transitions).

Thanks for the tip. I'm happy to get out of the city. Is there an interesting place to stay near either of these? I was considering trying to check out some of the Great Ocean Road.

Was trying to sneak by without bringing kites, but the flexibility to not be dependent is nice. What kite sizes are people flying this time of year (I'm 200lbs / 90kg)?

If forecast relies on a seabreeze for a decent wind, northern Port Phillip Bay best option by far (but no surf; wind chop / swell).
If wanting surf, generally east is safer and better; something for every direction. If it's a SE forecast and sunny, or a northerly; DEFINITELY east (Inverloch for flat and surf in E/SE; Kilcunda, Woolamai for surf in SE, Right Point in N esp if surf, or other N island spots).
If it's a SW or W forecast, west is as good as east and (esp Pt Danger on SW though if plenty of SW swell, Cat Bay on Phillip Island I think unbeatable for waveriding if that's what you're in to, and Inverloch bar a whole lot of fun too).
Best to stay; all are great! Torquay / Barwon Heads / Inverloch / Kilcunda / the Island. East coast quieter / more laid back. I love Kilcunda; very central, small and a bit wild, quiet, great cafe and pub.
Try them all! Hope you get some wind.