2.Combine butter, sugar and golden syrup in a small microwave-safe bowl; microwave, uncovered, on HIGH (100%) about 1 minute or until butter melts. Cool 5 minutes.
3.Sift combined flour, spices and soda into a large bowl; stir in butter mixture, egg and extract.
4.Divide dough in half; knead each portion of dough on floured surface. Roll dough between sheets of baking paper until 5mm thick. Using gingerbread-people cutters, cut out shapes and place on oven trays.
5.Bake gingerbread about 10 minutes; cool on trays.
6.To make royal icing, beat egg white in a small bowl with an electric mixer until just frothy; gradually add sifted icing sugar, beating between additions, until stiff peaks form. Tint as desired with various food colourings.