I'm also pretty much of a beginner when it comes to true lagers. My first effort was a Coopers Lager, which was fermented at around 24'. It was drinkable but verged on having some off flavours.
My advice would be to start with an ale first.
It is easier,especially in Qld, to keep the FV temps in ales fermentation range by making a swamp cooler/coolgardie safe to brew in. Here's my version....I have a wheelbarrow with the wheel packed up to get the tray level, three bricks in the tray for the FV to sit on,water to just below the top of the bricks,wrap the FV in a wet towel that trails in the water. I have mine situated in the breezeway of the house and depending on the humidity see wort temps of 18-22'.
I have my first real lager fermenting at the moment. After my dissapointing first attempt, I purchase a plugin Chinese/ebay temp controller for my w/shop fridge, got a Coopers Lager, swapped the yeast for S-23 and it's sitting there at 12'. Looking forward to a better brew this time.