Following service as a Rat of Tobruk and in New Guinea, Gordon Young was demobilised in Rabaul where he joined the Methodist Overseas Missions. At this time the work of missions in the Highlands was limited and Young was selected to lead a party to establish a mission at Mendi.
The walk to Mendi took seven days. It was discovered later that the local warriors discussed whether the party, including Young, should be killed. A station was successfully established, an airstrip constructed, and the teachings of the Methodist Church introduced.
On his return to Australia, Gordon Young continued his work for the Church, played an active role in the life of Princes, and held senior positions with Better Hearing Australia. His contribution to that organisation was acknowledged through the awarding of the RSL ANZAC Of The Year Award in 1990.