We have used short audio microphone goosenecks for this purpouse. They are stong enough for a compact camera, and we haven't had problems with wear or looseness. The threaded ends can be fited with standard or made-to-order support plates for the camera itself.
Search for "Profile MCG08 Microphone Accessories" in Amazon, it's really inexpensive (about $10 US) so you can have one or two spares just in case.