Ruby Shay is a Boorooberongal, Dharug singer-songwriter from the NSW Central Coast, bringing together country, folk and Americana through honest storytelling, rich melodies and a sound that carries equal parts warmth and grit.

Music has long been a place for Ruby to make sense of the world around her. Drawing on her own experiences, connection to culture and the communities that have shaped her, her songwriting explores the complicated spaces between resilience and vulnerability, belonging and independence, heartbreak and hope. Her music is distinctly Australian while drawing inspiration from artists including Missy Higgins, Sara Bareilles and Fanny Lumsden.

Ruby's debut album, Hitch a Ride, marked a major milestone in her career, reaching #2 on the ARIA Australian Country Albums Chart, #9 on the Australian Albums Chart and #14 on the ARIA Country Albums Chart. The independently released record also reached #1 on the 100% Independent Album Chart and #3 on the AIR charts, establishing Ruby as an emerging voice in Australian country music.

A recipient of the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, Ruby has continued to build her reputation on stage, performing at the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Groundwater Country Music Festival, alongside appearances at events and venues across the country.

In 2026, Ruby and her band, The Red Horse, continued that momentum with a run of new music and their appearance at the iconic Gympie Music Muster.

Whether backed by the full force of The Red Horse or with just a guitar in hand, Ruby's strength lies in songs that feel lived-in rather than polished around the edges - stories with something to say, delivered with heart, humour and a little bit of fire.

Set details

Gossy Weekender 2026 — Gosford Sailing Club

28 Masons Parade, Gosford NSW 2250

2026-10-18, 15:30–16:45 (Australia/Sydney)