Good morning, Andrea,
Am not sure that we have the internship system operating in Australia, therefore suggest that you contact one of your friends who has successfully done it in Australia, to find out the name of the company and how it was arranged. If you can't do this, suggest that you find out about civil engineering firms in the city you wish to visit, then approach them about an internship. Currently, the employment opportunities in Perth seem to be better than Melbourne.
Should you decide on Melbourne, the time of your visit is our windiest period. During June, July and August (our winter with water temps down to about 10 deg C), we look forward to cold winter northerlies. In September and October, the water temps are starting to rise and we get violent wind strength variations as frontal systems come through. By November and then through to March, the winds are more steady and we look forward to afternoon sea breezes of 12 - 25 knots. Here's a link to water temps:
http://www.baywx.com/temps.html (use the Northern Bay info) and here's a link to wind averages:
www.baywx.com/fbeacon.JAN.html (work the link backwards for other months. Also, use the Fawkner Beacon site as your best guide). For the period of your visit, you can expect air temps of 12 - 40 deg. C.
You will need a minimum of 2 x boards to sail successfully; one of about 105 litres (slalom) then another of about 85 litres (Real World Wave or FSW types). Sail range should cover 4.2 through to 7.5. Both the board and sail sets may be above your skill level, so adjust accordingly. You will definitely need a car and it may be best to look for employment with a company that is based on the south side of Melbourne
Am sure that the guys in WA will offer good advice, now that they know more of your needs.
Hope this helps.
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