This is a great combination of body and lens for the beginner to digital photography. The magnesium alloy body makes this a very durable camera. The lens is a great optical performer with an effective image stabilization system.
The 30D has an 8.2 megapixel CMOS sensor giving clean images even at high ISO sensitivity; it is also very good on battery life.
The EFS 17-85mm 1:4.5-5.6 zoom lens has a virtually noiseless ultrasonic motor, image stabilizer and macro capability, able to focus down to 1.2 feet.