Flash stand/support suggestions

So whilst tripods and me don't really get along with macro shooting I do find that I often am in situations where I want the flash offcamera, but not on a flash bracket on the camera itself but supported by something else. Idealy an assistant would do this, but they are expensive and don't all like working with bugs

So I'm looking around to see if there is something not too heavy, sturdy and strong enough to hold a 580EX2 and a small softbox (lumiquest size so really nothing big) with the option of having the flash held out at an angle away from the middle section (ie sideways as well as upright).

At present I've used my Manfrotto 055XPROB for the job, though whilst it has the versatility I need its rather heavy considering the job I need it to do.

So has anyone got an suggestions as to any possible solutions to this ?

One person has suggested a lighting stand with a boom arm - whilst the boom arm appears to do the job the lighting stands I've seen are all aimed at being used on a nice flat, stable surface with the legs low set and with support struts. The result is great for flat places but no use at all outside where things are far less level.

I've been wondering if there are boom arms that will attach to something like a cheap £/$15 tripod - which would give the leg versatilied with the head control of the boom without making the weight too great.