Avatars don't make the site less attractive to join. Actually I like the avatars the way they are. Not so disturbing or irritating, flashy or childlike as on many other forums. It gives the .org a more mature look IMO.

Personally I'm not completely pro junior membership. But I do think it might have some use. But abolishing might not be a bad idea. And I think it will indeed have a good influence on getting newcommers to stay.