While todays news headlines cry "Brisbane floods, one year on"... We're reminded that Brisbane wasn't alone in their crisis this time last year. The floods in Rio De Janeiro also devastated their state - and more than 900 lives were lost. 

Usually known as a haven for rich guys and holiday makers, Rio's famous for it's beaches and carnival lifestyle. Over in the mountainous areas to the east of the state, it's not as glamourous, especially since flooding and severe mud slides transformed the city of Petrópolis into a wasteland last January. It's here in Petrópolis that this photo was taken, of a young boy on a make-shift stand up paddle board. 

The advantages of Stand up paddling have been discussed at length, but reasons like improved visibility both above and below the water could be what caused this young fellow to think outside the box, when he tied together various bits of debris and proceeded to paddle out into the unknown. On the other hand, this boy could have just followed his instincts - and naturally ended up standing on his raft for reasons unknown. 

This isn't the only place we've seen stand up paddling used in unfamiliar circumstances. Even during the Brisbane floods; several photo's emerged of paddlers making the most of the conditions, paddling around picking up rubbish and adding a bit of humour to the otherwise dire circumstances.

Once again this year Rio's experiencing heavier than usual rainfalls with 30 already reported missing due to localised flooding. We wish all those over in South America the best of luck in these troubling times - but remember, if all else fails - grab a few pieces of wood, tie them together - grab a paddle and make the best of any situation with a bit of stand up paddling... 

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