Arnie museum officially open

Thal - Arnold Schwarzenegger inaugurated a museum devoted to himself at his birthplace in the Austrian town of Thal on Friday and told hundreds of fans that they too could achieve anything, if they set their minds to it.

The house near Graz in which Schwarzenegger was born in 1947 has been converted into a memorial that tells the story of his career, from a boy in a small rural community to champion bodybuilder, Hollywood star and US politician.

The 64-year-old former Californian governor also unveiled a larger-than-life bronze statue of himself in a bodybuilder's pose.

"It is my great wish that everyone who visits this museum understands one thing: That everyone can be successful in his own way," said the star, who was accompanied by his 18-year-old son Patrick.

While the action star held his speech, his admirers were slightly disappointed as they were left standing in pouring rain and thunder. They were allowed to visit their idol's home only after Schwarzenegger had left.

The media event also attracted politicians like Chancellor Werner Faymann.

Schwarzenegger did not comment on recent rumours that he might enter Austrian politics.